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No. 15 







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The 

Sheppard 

Trade-mark 






You will notice, as you look through the pictures in this new 
Ancona Book, that I have discarded the mustache shown above. 

But I don't dare change the Trademark. If I were to leave 
the mustache out, a good many people might think that they 
weren't getting the genuine Sheppard Strain of **Famous" 
Anconas. The Trademark has become so well known that I 
don't dare tamper with it. 

And so I stick to the mustache! 



1922 Winnings at Madison Square Garden 

The World's Premier Poultry Show 

'* Famous Birds" Won the Desirable Prizes 



SINGLE COMB 



ROSE COMB 



Cock 
Hen 

Cockerel 
Pullet 
Pen Old 



3 5 



3 4 5 



1 2 (2 entries) 



Pen Young 1 2 (2 entries) 



Cock 
Hen 

Cockerel 
Pullet 
Pen Old 
Pen Young 



2 (2 entries) 
2 (2 entries) 



Special for Best Single Comb^ijjulay Special for Best Rose Comb Display 

©jI. A6o9650 



m 1 7 1922 



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F you have ever enjoyed the 
luxury of a fine fresh egg or 
two for breakfast * * * 

If you have ever sold a 
dozen or more eggs to the 

corner grocery for a nice, sub- 
stantial profit * * * 

If you have ever sat down, on a Sunday, 
to an old-fashioned chicken dinner * * * 



Or if you ever hope to do these things 
* * * 

This new Ancona Book is dedicated to 
you. 




COPYRIGHT NOTICE 

This book is copyrighted (in 1922) by Mr. H. Cecil 
Sheppard. All rights are reserved in accordance with new 
copyright laws of the United States. Thus both the illus- 
trations and the original text in this book are protected 
for the exclusive use of Mr. Sheppard unless he gives his 
permission in writing. The name "Sheippard's" must not 
be applied to Anconas — by other breeders — ^without Mr. 
Sheppard's definite and written consent. If you have 
bought stock or eggs direct, write for permission to ad- 
vertise Sheppard strain. 



Winners in the Sheppard Snapshot Contest 




A few months ago, the world's first Ancona Snapshot Contest was started. 
The winning pictures (and the "stories" that came with them) are here announced. 

I wish to take this opportunity to thank all those "Famous" enthusiasts who 
entered the Contest, and to congratulate the winners. The prizes have already 
been awarded. 



From a Boy of Fifteen 



Dear Mr. Sheppard: 

My father and I have always been very much interested in poultry raising. 

A year ago, I noticed one of your advertisements in a Poultry Magazine 
and decided to send for your Catalog. I became so interested in your strain 
of Anconas that I purchased a few. We found out that Sheppard's "Famous" 
Anconas are above par as layers and also above par as show birds. 

Some time ago I sold five Ancona pullets and one cockerel to a man, who 
later said that he had been offered twice the price he had paid me for them. 
He had refused the offer, he said, because they were such excellent layers and 
so beautiful and tame. 

All the chicks I ordered from you this Spring are alive and full of "pep". 
They attempt to fly up on my shoulders, head and arms when I go out to feed 
them, so you can see that they are regular pets. 

Am sending you a picture of me and the "young ones". 

Yours truly, 

E. C. HILMBERG, 

Iowa. 



The Early Birds Make the Profits 



Dear Mr. Sheppard: 

I certainly feel a friend to you since I got to dealing with 
you, Mr. Sheppard. 

It is two years ago since I received my first fifty "Famous" 
Ancona chicks, and I am proud to say that I never took so much 
interest in my chickens as I have since then. The fifty chicks 
reached me 0. K. All of them were healthy and I raised every 
one. 

They are certainly early birds. One of my cockerels crowed 
before he was three weeks old, and my June pullets laid eggs in 
October. 

I cannot say enough in praise of Sheppard's Anconas. 

Am enclosing a snapshot of my flock. The two white hens you 
will notice are my setting hens as the Anconas never take time 
out to set ! 

Yours truly, 

MRS. ANTON HOMRICH, 

Michigan. 





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Mrs. Homrich and Flock 
3 




ii 



Just Shake Your Fist at Him" 



Dear Mr. Sheppard: 

I am enclosing a picture of one of my "Famous" cockerels. He 
is five months old and real tame. He will come up anytime to eat 
from your hand — ^but just shake your fist at him and he is ready 
for a fig-ht. 

In regard to my experience with the Sheppard Strain of 
Anconas, I will say that it has been such that I will never want 
to keep any other breed of chickens. I have only a small flock, 
about 160 hens, and keep them mostly for egg production, shipping 
eggs several times a week to the nearest city market. The largest 
number I have sold from my flock this year is 90 dozen. 

Anconas are fine layers winter and summer, and I often gather 
more eggs than usual during the coldest weather. They are more 
active and eat less than any other breed of chickens I have ever 
had. I find, also, that not only the pullets are great layers, but even 
the two-year old hens. 

I am glad to report a good hatch from the setting of eggs I 
bought from you last month. I got 14 chicks from the 15 eggs, and 
I hope to get some fancy cockerels from this bunch to head my 
pens. 

Very truly yours, 



MAUDE F. LONG, 

Tennessee. 



He Ought to Travel with a Circus ! 

Dear Mr. Sheppard: 

I am sending you a picture of myself and one of my 
Anoonas, as some people think they are. 



'wild" 



Folks here in Warsaw say I ought to travel with a circus. 
At the snap of my fingers, they are up on me and will stay there 
until I put them off. Then they get a little extra feed for their 
stunts. 

I don't expect to win your prize, but if anybody has got 
Anconas any tamer than mine, I want a picture of them. My 
boy can put an Ancona on the radiator of his little "racer" and 
ride around the streets with it. They are all great pets. 

I am more than pleased with the 'Tamous" Anconas, and 

will always have a word of praise for the Ancona King of the 

World, H. Cecil Sheppard. 

Yours truly, 

E. E. Kraehling 

Illinois. 



N. B. So many splendid 
snapshots were entered in the 
Ancona Contest that we had 
considerable difficulty in de- 
termining upon the three 
winners. It was especially 

hard to decide upon No. 3, 
so I selected two — the one 
on this and on the opposite 
page. Prizes were given to 
each of these entrants. 

— H. C. S. 




THE ANCONAS 

I am here printing extracts from a recent article in **The Country 
Gentleman," by Harry R. Lewis. It was entitled, 'The Anconas." 

— H. C. S. 

*'Yes, Cecil Sheppard has made the Anconas, but neither Cecil Sheppard nor 
any other mortal man could have given them the wide popularity they have 
today unless they possessed real merit to start with. 

"You have no doubt seen the Famous Sheppard Ancona Egg, ivory white, 
large and well-shaped, with a fine specimen of mottled Ancona in the center — 
with Mr. Sheppard's face peering at you just over the Ancona's back. Such is 
the trade-mark that has made the names Ancona and Sheppard synonyms the 
world over. It is a most interesting story of how this man, then successful in 
another line of business, but who was not blessed with good health, was led into 
the field of poultry production and how he saw the possibilities and used them 
to build a sound business for himself and to make the American hen more 
efficient. A few weeks ago I heard from Mr. Sheppard himself the story of his 
fight and the fun and profit he realized. My first questions were to satisfy a 
natural desire to know how it was that he should leave a remunerative business 
and take up chickens. Here is the way it actually happened in Mr. Sheppard's 
own words: 

" 'Cleveland was my home for a number of years. While there my health 
was not satisfactory. It looked as though it were a choice between getting 
farther away from the nerve-racking push and bustle of the city and spending 
more time in the great out-of-doors, or of prematurely joining the ranks of the 
countless slumbering army. Naturally, I resolved to go back to the country, 
and soon selected a location. Mrs. Sheppard and myself looked over a number 
of places on the southern shore of Lake Erie. We decided to settle in Berea, 
where conditions were ideal — good schools and colleges to educate the children 
and all modern conveniences. It is located on three railroads and a good electric 
line, so that shipping facilities are excellent.' 

The Beginner's Usual Mistake 

" 'I leased the property for a couple of years, but at the end of six months 
we were so deeply in love with the location that the property became a Sheppard 
possession. We moved to Berea the latter part of March, 1906.' 

"How did you come to choose Anconas when you began?" I asked. 

" *I started with several breeds," Mr. Sheppard answered. *I kept four 
breeds the first year. At the end of that year I decided to keep only one — the 
breed that produced eggs abundantly during the winter months. This is one 
of the secrets of success — to get a breed that will produce eggs practically all 
the year round, and especially when the price of eggs is high.' 

"Did you start with good birds?" I asked. 

" 'I made the usual mistake beginners make. I bought ordinary stock,* 
answered the Ancona king. 'At the end of the first year I found I had lost a 
year's time and had nothing but utility birds — something that intelligent chicken 
people do not want. It taught me a lesson, however. When I discarded my 
other breeds I secured the best stock of my favorite breed that could be obtained. 
At the end of the second year I had a flock of strictly liigh grade birds and 
found I was on the right road to success.' 

Good Stock the First Essential 

"From your experience what advice do you consider to be the most sound 
for beginners?" I queried. 

" 'The commercial agencies will tell you that 90 per cent of the business 
houses fail at some period during their lifetime,' replied Mr. Sheppard. 'Prob- 
ably the principal reason for this is because they start on too large a scale. It 
is like a boy learning to swim. If he jumps in deep water, he dro^vns; but if he 
stays in shallow water until he learns, he can go into deep water safely. I 
started my chickens on a small scale, and from the beginning they were paying 
for their keep and a little more.' 



" 'I would suggest that beginners start in a small way and buy good stock 
to start with. There is always a demand for good stock, while that for poor stock 
is limited. It is a common error to invest in expensive chicken houses and buy 
cheap stock. Whatever breed you buy, go to some reputable breeder and secure 
good stock. Remember that it is quality of stock that pays the large dividends 
and not the expensive poultry houses. You can raise good birds from good stock 
in a cheap building, but you cannot raise good birds from poor stock, no matter 
how good your buildings are. If you have twenty-five, fifty or a hundred dollars 
to invest, buy a pen of five birds in place of a dozen.' 

And So It Was 

"So it was that Cecil Sheppard started fifteen years ago to raise Anconas, 
first as a means of regaining perfect health and for the love of outdoor life, and 
now he is engaged in their breeding and sale as a business, a business which has 
placed him among the largest and best-known poultry breeders in America. 
From the small beginning fifteen years ago, we find Sheppard's Ancona Farm 
today has grown to immense proportions. The home farm at Berea, Ohio, con- 
sists of nineteen and a half acres, but in addition to this, Mr. Sheppard uses 
five farms of 100 acres each, where he grows thousands of head of young 
stock. In addition to the Ohio plant he operates two large branch farms, 
so he can take better care of his widely distributed customers. Sheppard's 
Ancona Farm winters about 5000 head of adult stock and more than 10,000 
head of youngsters are raised each year. 

"The center of this poultry manufacturing plant is a large three-story, 
barnlike structure which Mr. Sheppard calls the administration building. It is 
the hub of his business from which radiate all the activities incidental to the 
production of egg-laying, prize-winning poultry. In it are located the office, 
power plant, shipping room, conditioning room, fifteen laying pens, and 'stag 
quarters' with 250 individual cages for male birds. It is as least the largest, if 
not the only, barn of its kind in the world. 

"An office located in a barn may seem a bit incongruous. But it is finished, 

furnished and heated like a thoroughly modern business office in the heart of 

any city. An atmosphere of industry pervades the place. Stenographers are 

answering correspondence, other girls are checking over orders, sending out 

catalogues — almost everything that is done in any office. It is completely fitted 

out with modern office equipment, down to the latest wrinkle in a card -index 

system. 

Mother Nature's Kindly Gifts 

"Mother Nature has been kind to 'Ancona Headquarters.' There is a natu- 
ral-gas well on the farm. It is used to heat the office, to operate a steam- 
heating plant in the main brooder house; In fact, for all lighting and heating 
purposes on this modern 'manufacturing' plant. Fresh, pure water is available 
at several convenient places on the grounds. Eleven years ago Mr. Sheppard 
added what Nature neglected to provide — abundant shade for the flock of birds, 
in the shape of hundreds of fruit trees. Next to his chickens, Mr. Sheppard 
takes great pride in his splendid apple orchard. 

"The shipping room is one of the busiest places in the plant. From this 
room shipments go forth to the far corners of the earth. Even from Italy, the 
original home of the Ancona, and from England, where they have long been a 
favorite breed, orders come directed to Ancona Headquarters. Every shipment, 
whether is is for a 100-mile or 1000-mile trip, is prepared with scrupulous 
care to insure its safety. 

"Success in breeding fine birds has been one of the contributing factors 
toward the success of the whole business. During the past fourteen years Mr. 
Sheppard has won over 75 per cent of all the first and second prizes in both 
the single and rose comb Anconas entered at Madison Square Garden, America's 
leading poultry exhibition. His birds likewise have been noted for high egg 
production, both on his own farms and in the hands of his many customers." 

7 



MY STORY 

People often ask me if I don't get tired of telling the same old 
stuff year after year. Not for a moment! And it isn't the "same 
old stuff" ! 

For I am always finding out new things about *Tamous" Anconas. 
They are forever breaking old records and setting up new ones. 
Never a week goes by but what some new virtue seems to come to 
light. 

You will see, as you read through this Book, that Anconas have 
a mighty hold on me. And you will see, too, how they have won 
their way into the hearts of hundreds of my customers. 

My Early Experiences 

I often recall my early experiences with Anconas. When I first 
took hold of the breed, they were in a "bad way". Every hand, it 
seemed, was raised against them. The "experts" said that Anconas 
would never become popular. They would never make good, not in 
a million years ! It was claimed that there was no standard ; that in 
Italy (the original home of the breed) the birds were of a dozen 
different colors; that some were pure black, others black and 
white, others with every known shade of brown and tan mixed in 
with the black and white. Objections were even made to their being 
exhibited at the Shows. 

In spite of this gloomy prophecy and actual enmity, the Anconas 
pushed their egg-laying way to the front. Out of the chaos of color, 
there came a standard. The long dooping comb and the enormous 
gills disappeared. I wish you had seen those early Anconas, with 
their big combs and the gills that rested on the ground when they ate. 

My First Advertisement 

Long before I attempted to advertise my strain to any extent, I 
was busy making records — both in the showroom and the laying 
flocks. What little advertising I did was confined to the classified 
columns of the poultry publications. How well I remember my first 
"ad"! It cost me 80c, and it had a run of three months in "Poultry 
Success". It was published during the season of 1906-1907. Here it is : 

"Sheppard's Famous Anconas. Stock and eggs for 
sale. Circular free. H. Cecil Sheppard, Berea, Ohio." 

My first piece of printed matter was a small 4-page affair. If I 
remember correctly, I sent out only several hundred of this circular. 
My largest piece, this year, is the Catalog you are now reading. The 
first edition consists of 30,000 copies. It has taken eight tons of 
paper. And this, you will understand, is only the first edition. It will 
run at least one more edition. 

8 




H. CECIL SHEPPARD 



To Whom It May Concern: 

Have known Mr. H. Cecil Sheppard for many years. Have al- 
ways found him anxious to do all that he agrees to do. His integrity 
is not questioned. He has the reputation of giving everyone a 
square deal. 

E. J. KENNEDY, President, 

Commercial and Savings Bank, Berea, Ohio. 



But I wish to go on record right here with this statement: 

All the advertising I have ever done wouldn't amount to a row of 
rusty pins, if I didn't back it up with value received. And, as a matter 
of fact, I believe that about three-fourths of my new business comes 
not from advertising, but from the personal recommendation of satis- 
fied customers. 

But to get back to "Famous Anconas. I wouldn't be surprised, 
however, if you should find me talking about myself and my business 
quite frequently. For the story of Anconas is pretty much the story 
of Sheppard. The two stories seem to go together. 



Early Ancona History 

The first record available of Anconas comes from ancient and 
sunny Italy. The origin of this remarkable breed is still shrouded in 
mystery. Various explanations have been offered. Possibly they come 
from a cross between the Black Valdano and the common Italian fowl. 
Probably they were evolved thru years of patient breeding by the 
peasants of the province of Ancona, from whence comes their name. 
They are not without honor in their own country, being considered 
superior to all other native breeds in the production of eggs, in 
beauty, and in the quality of the meat. 

As I have said, the whole matter of Ancona origin is a matter of 
mystery. Some claim one thing, some another. From what I have 
been able to learn — and I have studied practically every responsible 
authority on the subject — the modern Ancona has no reason to be 
ashamed of its ancestry. On the contrary, it can feel mighty proud 
of its ancient Mediterranean descent. For even in those early days 
Anconas had the reputation of being excellent layers. 

Winter Egg Production 

As early as 1852 Anconas were imported to England and the 
Continental countries. It was in Belgium, I believe, that a Company 
was organized for the purpose of importing poultry that would "lay 
throughout the winter". This Company made no "bones" about it 
* * * they came right out and said that they were going into the 
business for the express purpose of getting Winter Egg Production. 

It was in 1890 that Anconas were first imported to America. 
I must confess that they created no great excitement for some years. 
Poultry matters were slow in those days, and only a few professional 
breeders heard about them. Not until 1905 did the American poultry 
public pay much attention to the Anconas. Since that time, however, 
they have grown steadily in public favor, and have made wonderful 
progress. 

With every passing year, Anconas become more popular. There 
is just one explanation: Anconas have proven profitable. 

10 




KING RICHARD 
America's Sovereign Bird 

The photograph does not do justice to the magnificent bearing 
of this regal bird. At the Madison Square Garden, New York City, 
he was first cockerel, and the year following, first cock. His great 
grandsire was first cock at the Dairy Show, London, England, and 
sire of all the birds that won all the top prizes in Madison Square 
Garden in 1908. And his grandchildren and great grandchildren 
have been adding luster to his laurels since then. 

11 



How Do They Do It? 

Many people have marveled how a supposedly warm weather bird 
could have so thoroughly engrained in its character the, ability to lay 
eggs in an American winter. The explanation lies in the geography 
of the province of Ancona. It is a mountainous country and unusual- 
ly cold temperatures prevail because of the superior elevation. In the 
winter time it is subject to the raw, bitter winds of the north of 
Europe. Thus the Ancona has been long accustomed to producing 
eggs under unfavorable conditions. 

It is geography, also, that probably explains Ancona hardiness. 
In Italy the climate ranges from below zero to 100 degrees, or more, 
above. This great diversity accounts for the extreme hardiness of 
Anconas, and their ability to adapt themselves to the varied climates 
of America. 

When Anconas were first sent out from Italy, it was under very crude and 
difficult shipping conditions. Early records tell us, however, that the mortality 
during the long and stormy sea voyages was "only one per thousand". This is 
certainly a splendid tribute to the hardiness and vitality of the Ancona. 

I Confess It! 

Many people have asked me this question: "Isn't it the source of considera- 
ble satisfaction, Mr. Sheppard, to have your name associated with such a won- 
derful breed of birds?" It surely is. 

When I stop to think of all that Anconas have done for me — and of all they 
are doing for my customers — I feel like "taking off my hat" to them. Just by 
way of example, (of what they have done for me), note the pictures on this 
and opposite page. The first shows my office of a number of years ago. You 
can see how old-fashioned everything looks. The one across the page shows 
my office of today. You can see the difference. 







St "S 




The Way We USED To Do Things 
12 




The Way We Do Them Now 



The Way We "Carry On" 

While we're in the office, I might as well tell you something 
about the way we "carry on" here. 

I keep a close supervision of all the mail myself. In this way I 
manage to keep a pretty close tab on the business all the time. If 
some question is asked or some word of explanation needed, I dictate 
a reply immediately. And it's a mighty poor day when I am not 
asked a score or more of questions about poultry raising. I wish 
you could read them * * * What kind of this or that or the 
, other thing I recommend. Is there any way to distinguish sex in 
day old chicks? How many chickens should be kept in a certain 
space? And dozens of others. 

If a letter contains an inquiry for a Catalog, one is immediately 
sent. If it contains an order for **Famous'' Stock or Hatching Eggs 
or Baby Chicks, the order is at once copied onto a card, which is kept 
for further reference. If the order calls for immediate shipment, the 
stock is usually on its way before the sun goes down. 

You can probably imagine how busy, you folks keep us. Some 
days more than a thousand letters are received. This, of course, is 
only during the busy seasons of the year. In spite of all this office 
work, however, I always find time to be out on the firing line * * * 
where the hens are cackling and the roosters crowing. 

13 




-.-v,^ 






Francis 

Many of my birds have earned the right to own fancy names. 
This particular one — a consistent prize winner — is called "Francis". 



The Old Speckled Hen 

Once in a while, other breeders of poultry seem to take a special 
delight in referring to the Ancona as the "old speckled hen". I am 
always glad to have them do so — it helps my business. For many 
happy memories of childhood days attach themselves to the "speckled 
hen" on Grandma's farm. This same "speckled hen" was the bird 
who paid for Grandma's new bonnets and paisley shawls. She was 
Grandmother's favorite. 

But the modern Ancona is "speckled" — not because they are 
mongrels, but because they are a distinct Italian breed and have 
been mottled for centuries. 

It is this "speckled" feature that makes the Ancona so dis- 
tinctive in appearance. The occasional snow-white feather tip, show- 
ing on the background of snappy black, makes a splendid combina- 
tion. The picture above will indicate to you the reason for their 
name — "snow-flecked beauties". 



If they were merely beautiful, I wouldn't have them around- 
but just wait until we come to the matter of eggs. 



14 



A Mediterranean Bird 

Anconas belong to the Mediterranean Class. There are two 
varities — Rose and Single Comb. There is absolutely no difference 
between them except in the comb itself. As the Single Comb was the 
first to be imported to this country — and possibly because they are 
somewhat more striking in appearance — they are the more common. 
However, the Rose Comb Ancona is meeting with popular favor 
everywhere. It's simply a matter of personal preference. There isn't 
the slightest difference in their inherent good qualities. 

The ideal Ancona shape is similar to that of the Leghorn, with 
the exception that the body is somewhat longer and deeper. It is 
built, so to speak, on a broader *Vheel-base." This feature gives them 
added advantages and possibilities as an egg laying machine. 




A STUDY IN BLACK AND WHITE 

I Never Get Tired of Studying "Famous" markings. 
They are Really Beautiful 



15 



The Ideal AncoDa Type 

The highest type of Ancona development is no longer marked by 
the perpendicular tail. That of the male is full and carried compara- 
tively low — at an angle of 45° — or slightly less. This I consider the 
ideal type. The tendency in the past has been toward erect, almost 
upright tails. Some breeders have had difficulty, however, in obtaining 
the proper angle. I am glad to say that this variation from the ideal 
has yielded, as have all others, to skilful breeding. I am able to 
furnish Ancona males with large, full, but broadly-arched tails. 

The male bird is very alert and proud in appearance. He seems 
to be constantly on parade, the imperious, regal master of his family. 
His neck is long and nicely arched. He has a deep, full breast, carried 
well forward. 

The Ideal Ancona Color 

The accepted Ancona color is black mottled with white. Many 
other breeds run to a confusing conglomeration of various hues and 
shades, but Anconas have but the one combination — the mottled black 
and white. To be sure, black and white doesn't compare in radiance 
with a rainbow or a sunset, but it has a beauty all its own. The black 
is rich and lustrous and affords a striking contrast to the clean, sharp 
white. A final splash of brilliant color is added in the sparkling red 
comb. Such a splendid combination of colors, together with the keen, 
alert appearance and superb carriage of Anconas, makes them the 
world's leaders in point of beauty and charm. 

The ideal Ancona feather is black touched with a slight greenish 
sheen, with a pure white tip. The feather is dark color to the skin, 
whereas the white portion is sharp and distinct. The old standard re- 
quired a white tip on each and every feather. But in addition to 
being difficult to obtain, this was objectionable because it had a 
tendency to make the birds too light in color. The accepted standard 
is now a white tip on every fifth feather. This enhances their beauty 
and has met with general approval. 

The face and wattles of the American Ancona are of a bright red, 
with the face free from white. The beak is yellow with black or dark 
brown shadings. The iris of the eye is a bright orange red with a 
hazel pupil. Ear lobes are creamy white. The best American 
standards demand yellow legs or yellow mottled with black. 

Anconas are very beautiful even from the fluffy yellow and black 
baby chick period. As they mature, Ancona chicks never encounter 
the sparsely-feathered, awkward appearance common to most young 
fowls. They are attractive and graceful every day of their lives. 
Naturally, good breeding has a great deal to do with this. 

16 




First Rose Comb Pen, Madison Square Garden, New York City 



The only difference between the Rose Comb and the Single Comb 
is in the comb itself. Otherwise, the two types are identical. 



17 



The Ideal Ancona Weight 

The average Ancona is slightly larger than the Leghorn — mature 
hens weighing from four to five pounds — mature males five to six 
pounds. Occasionally the weight of an individual will exceed these 
figures by a pound or so. In my early experience I relied on heavy 
birds. But I soon learned that extra large birds were not good layers. 
I endeavored now to breed as large as possible without interfering 
with the laying qualities of the strain. 

It is an easy matter to say that the ideal Ancona should be thus 
and so, but it is something of a problem to keep the strain up to 
standard. But not so difficult after all — when one stops to think of 
the troubles that other breeders encounter. For the Ancona breeds 
very *'true", as a rule, and one can ordinarily depend on getting what 
one is after. - 



Where "Famous" Records Are Kept 

It is largely a matter of knowing exactly what you want, of 
knowing how to get it, and of keeping accurate records of matings. 
All 'Tamous" matings are kept in my large fire-proof safe. Some 
years ago this safe cost me $400, and it would probably cost twice 
that amount today — but I would not lose the consents for ten times 
its cost. The records in that safe enable me to protect and improve 
the Sheppard Strain. 




18 




I'm Giving a Special Prize for 
Every "Mopey" Bird You Can Find in This Picture 



I hope that you will forgive me if you find me rambling about. 
But I am writing this Catalog just as if I were talking to you. Just 
as if you had come to me and said, "Mr. Sheppard, tell me about the 
Tamous' Anconas and about yourself." That's exactly what Fm 
trying to do. 



Taking a Little Stroll 

So if you don't mind, we'll take a little stroll about the place. 

The picture on this page shows one of my poultry houses. The 
ventilators, you will notice, are placed at the highest point of the 
roof. A sliding door on the inside of the roof regulates the amount 
of air admitted. That's one of the things in poultry raising that I'm 
strong for — lots of good clean fresh air. And Anconas can stand it — 
they thrive on it! Poultry netting is tacked on the inside of the 
ventilators and over the windows to keep the sparrows out. I have 
found this to be a very practical house — with plenty of light and 
fresh air. 

Notice how quick and alert these "Famous" Anconas are, — every 
blooming one of them on-the-move. And notice the "lines" — just as 
clean-cut and snappy as any bird you ever laid eyes on. 

19 



As we roam around the place, you will be struck time and time 
again by the splendid, uniform appearance of **Famous" Stock. They 
all look more or less alike. You will note very little difference in type 
or coloring. All of them are busy, and they look as much alike as 
so many peas in a pod. 

How We "Keep Tab" on the Layers 

But just step inside one of the buildings with me. Here is where 
we keep tab on them. All along the side of the walls are little boxes 
■ — row after row of them. As ''laying time" approaches, the hens 
come hurrying into the house. A hen flutters up to the little, door, 
enters, and the door closes behind her. If all the traps are filled, as 
they frequently are, the laying ladies will wait their turn. Laying 
is their job — their business in life. 

As soon as the egg is deposited, one of the employees of the 
farm comes along with a record blank. He opens the door, makes a 
record of the hen's number, and takes the egg. In this way, we keep 
a perfect account of the egg-laying history of every hen in our breed- 
ing pens. Not a single hen escapes our attention, for every one bears 
her number on a metal tag just above the foot. 

The Way We Improve The Strain 

This is the kind of information that we keep in the big safe, for 
I always try to give a customer just exactly what he or she wants. 
This is also the type of information that enables me to improve the 
Sheppard Strain, for with it I am able to cull out the slackers and 
sell them to market. To find a "happy home" on the Sheppard Farm 
— or to be considered as good enough for a Sheppard customer — a 
hen has got to be a real layer. 

I hope that you will notice (in the pictures across the page) the 
action that "Famous" Anconas put into the photographs. They are 
on-the-job all day long, picking up a good big share of their own feed. 

When some of my customers tried to get pictures of "Famous" 
Anconas for the Snapshot Contest, they learned how difficult it is to 
get an Ancona to "pose". YouVe got to be quick to get a good 
picture. As one of them said, "Anconas won't stand for it" ! 

This is a good point about Anconas. If you have ever had any 
experience with poultry, you know that it is usually the active birds 
that do the laying. Birds who are in the habit of leaning up against 
the fence-posts seldom pad the pocketbook. And if you get a picture 
of an Ancona loafing on the job, send it to me. Td like to see it. 

20 



1 



Another type of poultry house. You will see that 
has been made — plenty of it — for fresh air and sunlight. 



provision 




Feeding time for one of the flocks of promising youngsters. You 
can bank on it that this flock is going to produce some first-class 
prize winners and some blue-ribbon layers. 




21 




One of My Finest Young Apple Trees 



The Sheppard Trees 

I take a great deal of pride in my fruit trees. There are over 
a thousand of them on the place, mostly apple and cherry, and they 
are pretty well along in growth. 

These trees, as you will note in the picture, are trimmed close 
to the ground, thus affording plenty of shade for the birds. And 
notice the way this young tree is loaded down with apples! The 
picture, of course, was taken when the apples were still green, but 
it gives you some idea as to what the finished product will be. Last 
year, from one apple tree, I sold over $30.00 of selected fruit. 

There's another tree on the place that I'm pretty proud of — 
and that is the Big Oak out in front of the house. Some tree, isn't 
it ? I want to tell you that I get a heap of satisfaction from my trees. 

The soil on the Sheppard Farm is rich. I have the land cultivat- 
ed quite frequently, planting it to oats for summer range as green 
food and with rye for fall and early winter. These crops freshen 
the soil and keep the ground healthful for the fowls. And I might 
give you this pointer right here: Keep your poultry park just as 
clean and fresh as you possibly can. It will pay you big returns in 
the way of healthier chickens and more eggs. 

22 



Anconas in Back-yards 

From what I have just said, I don't want you to get the im- 
pression that "Famous" Anconas have to have a 20-acre range in 
order to make money for their owners. Not a bit of it ! They thrive 
— and lay eggs — under the most confined back-yard conditions. 

It is in the back-yard that the real test of egg-laying ability 
comes. And it is in the back-yard that Anconas shine! With the 
thousands of home folks who wish to have fresh eggs and tender 
meat for the table, who have no objection to making a little money 
on the side, who wish to enjoy a bit of recreation — "Famous" 
Anconas have won favor. 

By their splendid performance — both in cities and on farms — 
have won for themselves a reputation as the Great Home Bird. They 
are particularly well fitted for such a role. For they stand confine- 
ment well, take up a minimum of space, and eat much less food than 
the ordinary fowl. 




Photo of "The Great Oak" on the Sheppard Farm. 
23 




PRINCE RENOWN 

Madison Square Winner 
Prince Reno'wn was cro'wned when he carried off his "First" at Madison Square Garden 



Be Sure You Get These Two Points! 

This speaking of "Famous" hardiness and of the abihty to lay 
eggs under discouraging conditions reminds me of something I 
should probably have told you about some time ago. 

And that is the two qualities I have constantly had in mind in 
creating the Sheppard Strain of Anconas. 

Vigorous Vitality 

and the 

Laying Habit 

I have depended on my male birds to impart the quality of vital- 
ity to the Strain, and they have come through nobly. Just take an- 
other look at that splendid specimen on the front cover. Isn't he 
a dandy ? Notice that snappy, alert position ; the four-square way he 
stands on his feet; the broad, full sweep of his tail, the "cocky", con- 
fident way he throws out his chest. He's a regular "Cock o' the 
Walk". 

So it is the male who gives to the hen the vitality that she must 
possess, in order to stand up under the strain of heavy laying. 

24 



i 



Where The Hen Comes In 



But the male can't do it all. The hen must have the laying^ 
habit. She has got to feel within her the ''urge" to seek the nest. 
And she gets this, as a rule, in but one way : Inheritance. 

Which means that she comes of laying stock. Her mother and 
her grandmothers must have had the laying habit. Her body must 
be so formed that it is second nature to lay eggs — a part of her daily 
duty as a self-respecting hen. 

You will find that "Famous" Anconas are instinctive layers. 
They have the two qualities necessary to consistent egg production — 
vitality and the habit of laying eggs. You don't need to train them 
to lay — or to coax them along. They will do it of their own accord — 
it's part of their natures. 

Just give them reasonable care and comfortable quarters — and 
then get the egg basket ready! And see if you think you can recog- 
nize a laying type when you see one, take a look at the bird on 
this page. Every line of her body tells of eggs. 




MISS VICTORY 

First Prize Single Comb Ancona Hen, 
Madison Square Garden, New York City 

25 



The Thing That Amuses Me 

If there is one thing in this business that amuses me more 
than anything else, it is the pains that some good people go to in 
order to spread abroad the idea that Anconas are 'Vild". 

This seems to be about their best argument — and they pound 
it on the back for all it is worth. What do they mean, "wild"? 
It is true, of course, that Anconas have plenty of "pep'*. If they 
were "mopey" and sluggish and lazy, it would take a lot of joy out 
of the business for me. I like an active bird, a bird that moves 
around as if it were really enjoying life; for these are the kind of 
birds that produce the eggs. 

Which is what most good poultry men and women want — eggs. 



The way some people talk about Anconas, you might think that 
a young cockerel or a peace-loving hen would be a good match for 
a cage of vicious lions or tigers. Well, one of them might. I've 
never seen it tried, so I can't say. 



But just notice the kiddies with these four "Famous" birds. 
They don't look very "wild", do they? 




1 
I 



The Kiddies Love Em ! 
26 




One of the 'Wild Ones" 



Where Do They Get It? 

And if you haven't been skipping anything, you probably noticed 
the snap-shot of the young lady on page 4. It showed her shaking 
her fist at a young cockerel, and he was ready for a scrap, with his 
neck feathers all ruffled up. But when the young woman "treats him 
nice," he is as tame as a pet canary. And when the occasion calls- 
for "pep", he's got it. 

Which makes a pretty good combination. 

And note, if you will, the picture of the young lady and the 
"Famous" chicken on this page. Nothing very vicious-looking about 
this bird, is there? 

So I don't see where the people who always have some wild tale 
to tell about Anconas "get that stuff" ! It sort of makes me laugh. 
I wonder if they can't think up a better argument than that. But as 
this seems to be one of their favorite ways of "knocking", I don't 
think I ought to keep still and let them have it all their own way. 



So I am giving a page or two of my Catalog in order to get at 
the truth of this criticism of the breed. 

27 




A "Neighbor" of Ours and a Good Friend of Anconas 

The "Wild-cat" Anconas 

Some years ago, during a visit to a city in Western Ohio, I met 
a prominent attorney. 

He invited me to go with him to see his chickens. After driving 
out of the city for a mile, we arrived at his summer home. I found a 
dehghtful spot located on the Miami River. The house was built on 
the river bank, facing a large apple orchard. It was a hot summer 
afternoon, so the shade was greatly appreciated. We dropped down 
on the grass under the shade of a large apple tree. Hadn't been there 
long before the chicks came up to get acquainted. In a few moments 
quite a large flock had gathered from over the orchard. Presently a 
beautiful Ancona cockerel was perched upon the lawyer's head, and 
seemed to feel right at home. After being up there a few moments, 
he concluded that he would be more friendly, and took up his abode 
on his owner's arm, and from there he walked down into his hand, 
where he remained until he was pushed off on the ground. 

And notice the "young man" pictured on this page. Miss Ancona 
is singing him a song. Perhaps it's just a little bit too loud for him, 
because he don't seem to be enjoying that part of the ceremony. 
But you can easily see that the Ancona is a real pet. 

These are pictures, mind you, of the "wild" Anconas ! 

28 



Fm Proud Of This "Fault 



99 



Just one more word about this '"wild" business, and I am through 
with it: 

I am proud of this so-called "fault". For it simply indicates 
that ''Famous" Anconas possess a tremendous amount of energy and 
vitality. And it is this very vitality that makes them such big 
producers of eggs. In short, the Ancona is to the poultry industry 
what the Jersey cow is to the milk and cream business. 

Here's what one of my customers says about it: 'The 'wildness' 
that characterizes the Anconas is the high, alert spirit that is 
characteristic of any well-bred, highly-organized, sensitive animal. 
If one would have hens which lay many eggs, one must have 
active hens. Anconas are a highly-organized piece of machinery. 
They produce good goods, many of them, and all the time. Naturally, 
they are not asleep". 

This ought to settle the question of "wildness" for a long time 
to come. As a matter of fact, if you have ever watched Anconas 
you will know that they are just as tame as any chickens you ever 
saw. 




MADAM MERIT 
First Prize Rose Comb Ancona Hen, Madison Square Garden, New York City 

29 







Bound for Points 6ast 



Shipping "Famous" Stock To Foreign Shores 

One of the most interesting features — and there are many of 
them in this poultry business — is the shipping end of it. I usually 
spend from one to three hours a day in the shipping room, making 
sure that I am giving my birds a "fair show". For I want them to 
arrive in good condition. 

The shipping coops I use will stand up under trips of thousands 
of miles. Not so very long ago I shipped a pen of six 'Tamous" birds 
to a customer in Brazil, South America. Some time later I received 
this letter: 



"Referring to my order for a pen of six Anconas, I am 
pleased to advise that these birds arrived yesterday. They 
were all in good shape after the long journey of a month. I 
am very well saitsfied with your selection and hope to be 
able to send you additional orders in the future." 



In the course of the average year, I make many foreign ship- 
ments. "Famous" Stock from the Sheppard Farm has been sent to 
Chile, Argentina, and other South American countries; to Alaska, 
the Hawaiian Islands, Australia, Germany, New Zealand, Japan, and 
South Africa. On these trips as much as 10,000 miles — the birds 
came through with flying colors. 

30 



All Aboard For The Far East 

In the picture across the page, you will see a shipment that has 
been prepared for two far-away countries. The box on the left con- 
tained a Trio for New Zealand, the one on the right a Trio for Japan. 
Both of these shipments left Berea the same day, and both of them 
arrived in fine shape. On the corner of the box for Japan, you will 
note the address written in the curious Japanese characters. 

I don't know myself just what these funny little ''chicken tracks" 
mean, but I guess that they told the story, for the birds arrived at 
the proper destination in apple-pie order. 

I take a lot of pride in these foreign shipments, because it shows 
to me that "Famous" Anconas are known the wide world over. But 
don't get the idea that you have to live in Timbuctoo or Turkestan 
or some other outlandish place in order for me to appreciate your 
interest in the Sheppard Strain of Anconas. It makes no difference 
to me where you hang your hat. 
You'll get just the same expert care 
and selection — when you order — as 
any man or woman who hails from 
the ends of the earth! 



Better Every Year! 

And I am also proud to say that 
the quality of the shipments that go 
out from Ancona Headquarters is 
improving every year. I am today 
selling, as common utility stock, 
birds that commanded the fanciest 
kind of prices ten or twelve years 
ago. "Famous" Anconas have been 
linerbred to a point where they 
breed remarkably true — in type, 
in plumage, and in egg production. 
The percentage of birds who are 
not up to standard is being constant- 
ly reduced. 

These are the things that make 
me say, "Sheppard, stick to it! 
You're going good. The Strain is 
getting better with every passing 
year !" 

And my customers seem to appre- 
ciate the way I keep improving the 
Strain, for they come to me year 
after year with new orders. 

31 




Can You Jigure These Out? 



—And All Without "Knocking" 

I am glad to say that I have built up this "Famous" Ancona 
business without stooping to ''knock" other breeds. Most of them ., 
have their good points, and all of them have their friends, so 1 
stick to my guns and talk "Anconas". 

But I will say this : 

I am of the firm opinion that the foremost business of the hen is 
to produce eggs. This is their first and greatest virtue — their excuse ! 
for existence. The hen's job in life is to lay eggs. The Strain that will 
lay the most eggs, with the greatest regularity at an early age, at the 
lowest cost for feed, is the Economy Bird. That bird is the Ancona. 

I have sold many Anconas to replace the heavier breeds. There 
are numerous advantages. Regard the chicken as an "egg-machine." 
A heavy bird carries about a great deal of unnecessary surplus equip- 
ment in excess flesh. The cost of "upkeep" is excessive. A large 
proportion of food consumed must go into the maintenance of the 
body. What is left over — if there is any — goes into the production 
of eggs. It is an expensive, wasteful system and would not be toler- 
ated in any ordinary business. 

Built To Lay Eggs 

Anconas are built for the manufacture of eggs. A large propor- 
tion of what they eat goes into the production of eggs. In addition, j 
they consume less feed. On a conservative estimate, five of them ' 
will not eat as much as three of the heavy varieties. They occupy 
less space per bird. Unlike heavy birds they are non-setters and 
seldom show any tendency to broodiness. When heavy fowls are set- 
ting — on a "strike" as far as egg profits are concerned — Anconas 
continue to produce. 




Miss Dot — First Prize Pullet, Madison Square Garden 
32 




Photo of large, 'white, full-bodied cAncona eggs 

And it is on the basis of eggs that most of the profits in poultry 
raising are made. 

More Eggs on Less Feed 

Wherever the year-around production of eggs is desired, Anconas 
have come to the front. For above everything else, they are layers 
— and Winter layers. And they lay more eggs on less feed! 

In connection with this statement, I am going to print a bit 
of interesting evidence. This report is from the records of the 
Missouri Egg Laying Contest, certified to by Mr. C. T. Patterson, 
who was in charge of the experimental work: 

"One hundred pounds of feed produced 300 eggs when 
fed to Anconas; 268 eggs when fed to Leghorns; 251 eggs 
from Wyandottes ; 230 eggs from Orpingtons ; 225 eggs from 
Campines; 203 eggs from Minorcas; 201 eggs from Rhode 
Island Reds; 188 eggs from Plymouth Rocks; 179 eggs from 
Langshans. 

''Furthermore, when all the eggs were weighed it showed 
that the Anconas laid the largest eggs of all the breeds tested. 

"And the Anconas laid the largest per cent of eggs during 
December, January, February, March, April and May, when 
prices are the highest both for market and hatching." 

Do you see what they have done? More eggs on less feed! The 
largest eggs ! And a big percentage of eggs when prices are high ! 

33 



The Bird For The Farmer 

In my travels about the country, I have frequently visited the 
County Fairs and Poultry Shows, and I have often admired exhibits 
of Anconas — to find, in many cases, that the exhibitors were farmers. 
And the farmer, people imagine, cares only for the heavy breeds! 

If they ever felt that way about it, they are certainly changing 
their minds. More and more the "Famous" Ancona is winning the 
farmer. In some sections of the country, the Ancona is the only 
bird they will consider. 

For the bird-that-fills-the-egg-basket appeals to the farmer. And 
why not? For it is in eggs that poultry money is made! 

And For Everyone Else 

But not only to the farmer — and the farmer's wife — does this 
egg-laying breed of chickens make a big appeal. You will find them^ 
in villages, in small towns, and in the large cities. Everyone likes 
Anconas — men, women and children. Doctors, lawyers, ministers, 
business men — all of them enjoy working with these ''speckled" 
beauties. Men who work in factories and mills find in Anconas a 
fine source of recreation. Women like to have something alive and 
active about them^ — they turn to Anconas. Children enjoy them as 
pets. 

And no one — at least no one I ever heard of — objects to the 
money that can be made from them. They have paid many a debt. 
They have bought many a new dress or suit. They have made possi- 
ble many a luxury of one sort or another. They have made necessary 
many a trip to the bank. 

The Best Winter Layers in America 

It is performances like this that has made ''Famous" Anconas 
so famous. This habit of laying eggs the year around, regardless 
of cold weather, has made the Anconas what they are today — 
America's Best Layer. And such eggs! Big, white, full-bodied eggs! 
On the average, a dozen Ancona eggs will weigh about 30 ounces, 
which is well over 2 ounces per egg. I want to tell you that it's a 
downright joy to gather such eggs as these. 

And especially when you can gather them day after day! Let 
the cold winds blow. Let the old thermometer hit the zero mark 
and go way below. It doesn't seem to make a blooming bit of 
difference to these "Famous" layers. They stick to the job, just 
as if the sun was shining. They got used to cold weather when 
they were laying eggs up in the mountains of Italy in the winter 
time. 

Laying eggs the year around is second nature to "Famous" 
Anconas ! 

34 




In The Good Old Days 

Back in the ''good old days" 
when eggs were 10 cents per dozen, 
and when old-fashioned recipes 
called calmly for ten or fifteen eggs 
at one swoop, an egg was just an 
^gg. Worth less than a penny 
apiece Grandma could afford to be 
prodigal in their use. If an egg 
happened to be a trifle under- size, 
she used two to make up for it. 

But with one egg costing as 
much as a dozen did formerly the 
modern cook uses them with considerable discretion. Reckless recipes 
have been hidden on the top shelf of the pantry. The economical 
housewife realizes that an egg is an egg — and she is learning to 
demand good eggs. 



That is why the grocery-man will pay more money for Ancona 
eggs. He knows that the modern housewife wants better eggs and 
is willing to pay better prices. Eggs of inferior size and indifferent 
quality fail to measure up to modern recipe requirements, and are 
never satisfactory. 

Just take a look at those big, white, full-bodied Ancona eggs on 
the table. Any woman would be delighted to use eggs of such superior 
size, weight and quality. Ancona eggs, like Ancona fowls, are fore- 
most from the standpoint of economy. 



The "Famous" Breeds "Beats AH" 

I would like to always have you keep in mind the fact that I take 
a great deal of pride in the results my customers get from Anconas. 
By way of example: one of my customers has had such flattering 
results with stock purchased from our farm that they have very 
fittingly called their Anconas, "Beats All". They have had records of 
320, 327, 331, 333 and 336 eggs per year. This is strong evidence 
that the ''Famous" Strain certainly "Beats All". These customers 
have written me that their stock was bred from Sheppard's Famous 
Ancona stock purchased from me and have supported this state- 
ment with an affidavit. Both the letters and the affidavit are in my 
possession. 

35 




%ollmg 'Em In! 

How We Gather The Harvest 

I want to show you the way we gather the harvest here at 
Ancona Headquarters. The picture does the business. 

Basket after basket of them — big, white, fresh eggs. This is 
where a lot of the fun comes in. Of course, it's hard work — handhng 
so many eggs day after day — but it's the kind of hard work we all 
enjoy. And I never get tired of seeing the eggs roll in — nor do the 
Anconas ever seem to tire of "shelling 'em out". 



Anconas Are Hardy 

Here is another thing I would like to bring to your attention 
before I forget it: 

Anconas do not make extravagant demands on their owners, but 
will produce eggs liberally without unusual methods. Of course they 
do not thrive on utter neglect, but neither do they require excessive 
pampering. They are primarily a hardy, virile breed. 

You'll never have to '*sit up all night" with ''Famous" Anconas. 
They are used to taking care of themselves, and they make a pretty 
good job of it. Just give them a fair chance — that's all they need! 

36 



It is probably a definite fact — although I can give you no figures 
to support my statement — that Anconas are less subject to ordinary 
poultry diseases than any other breed. Customers who have tried 
many different breeds have told me this time and time again. For 
if Anconas are anything, they are hardy. 

Be Reasonable! 

Just give them reasonable treatment. Don't be like the old 
man who stopped feeding his hens in the fall because he "knew" 
that they wouldn't lay any winter eggs anyway ! Just be reasonable — 
and the Anconas will do the rest. 

Keeping the hen-house clean, well-ventilated, and disinfected is 
reasonable. Feeding warm mashes in the dead of winter is reason- 
able — if you don't overdo it. Keeping the dropping boards clean is 
reasonable. If the weather is bad and rainy and disagreeable, putting 
a little cold or roup preventitive of one kind or another in the drink- 
ing water is reasonable. Keeping the birds free from lice is reason- 
able. 

If it's reasonable, do it! 




TSlptke the long-geared, egg-laying body of this "Famous" cAncona 
It's the type that hangs up the good records 

37 



BEFORE 




A Visit to An Ancona Egg Factory 

Egg gathering time! 

Do you remember when as a child you used to help Grandma 
gather the eggs? Remember how hard a time you had waiting until 
she gave you the basket and told you to go to it ? How you searched 
out all the hidden places — in the hay loft, under the straw stack, be- 
hind the granary and a dozen other nooks and comers? Recall that 
shout of pure joy that went coursing through your veins whenever 
you discovered a new nest? Those were the days of ''real sport!" 

Grandma always took particular pains to tell you where the 
speckled hen had hidden her nest. She knew that this old favorite 
of hers could usually be depended upon to help fill the basket. 

The neighbor kiddies near my farm still enjoj^ this old-fashioned 
sport. Occasionally they come over to help collect the eggs. But it's 
a real task nowadays — handling hundreds and hundreds of eggs daily. 
It's a man's job and all the kiddies can do is to lend a helping hand. 
They delight in the opportunity. 

I never tire of seeing the white harvest of eggs come in. Some- 
times I give my men a ''lift" and bring in a few baskets myself. 
Though I've handled thousands and thousands of eggs in my years of 
experience, much of the old thrill of boyhood days still survives. 

The above pictures tell their own story. Four empty baskets on 
their way to the egg factory — time out for collection — and four heap- 
ing baskets returned to the house. Would you like it? Of course the 
average American family doesn't need that many eggs daily nor does 

38 



AFTER 




it have tremendously large flocks. But it is wise to remember that 
a small flock will, in proportion, produce more eggs than an exception- 
ally large flock. 

And the kiddies — they enjoy it! Nothing they like better than 
''going over to Mr. Sheppard's and gathering eggs." It's great sport! 

Your children will be just as tickled and delighted. Start with a 
small Ancona flock and try it. Gathering eggs is nice clean, whole- 
some fun and it keeps them out of mischief. They vdll be proud of 
their feathered beauties and of their record as consistent layers. 

Anconas are easily tamed and quickly become pets of the family. 
The kiddies will love them. Ask them about it! 

It's a great game — the chicken business. And the best of it is 
that one need not possess a wealth of information and chicken- 
knowledge to extract a great deal of pleasure and profit. There are 
so many sources of practical advice and valuable information. 

"Famous" Anconas are a particularly good bird with which to 
start. They are especially hardy and will survive the period of 
amateurish experiments. They seem to have the ability to do well 
even under adverse circumstances. For the beginner in poultry the 
Ancona is the ideal bird. 

Keep your kiddies busy and happy by putting an Ancona family 
to work for you. There are unlimited pleasure possibilities in 
"Famous" Anconas, not only for them, but for you. And with the 
pleasure, a bit of care in the selection of stock will bring you a great 
deal of profit. We are always ready to furnish the carefulness 
necessary to provide you with superior stock 

It's an ancient game — egg gathering — but it's heaps of fun. 

39 



I think I might as well stop right here and sum up all that I 
have already said, and get in all the things I have forgotten to say. 

So I am submitting 12 points that demonstrate the superiority 
of "Famous" Anconas. Read them over carefully, for they are facts. 
And bear in mind, while you are reading them, that every single 
one of these points is a good reason for selecting 'Tamous" Anconas. 

If you have any doubt about it, ask the man or woman who 
owns Anconas. They all tell the same story — a story of more enjoy- 
ment, less trouble, bigger egg production, and greater profits. Some 
of them are interested in "Famous" birds for one reason only — egg 
production the year-around. Others have chosen the Ancona because 
it is such a beautiful bird — with its snappy black and white feathers 
and its keen, alert carriage. And still others are interested in 
"Famous" Anconas because of the prizes they are able to win. Most 
of them are interested for all three reasons — eggs, prizes, and beauty 
— and all of them are "Famous" boosters. 

Here are the 12 points: 

Point 1 — Heavy Layers 

Anconas lay large, white eggs, producing them at the least pos- 
sible cost per dozen. The cost per dozen will run as low as ten to 
fifteen cents. There are no better egg producers anywhere, and the 
eggs are of such a size, color and uniformity, as to command the 
very best market prices. "Famous" Anconas have the remarkable 
individual record of 335 per year, and the wonderful flock record of 
268 per year. 

Point 2 — Early Layers 

Pullets begin laying at from four to five months old and produce 
consistently until they are four years old at least. Some of my best 
layers are four-year-old hens. You don't need to replace old stock 
each year or each two years, as must be done with practically all 
other birds if the flock is kept profitable — and profits is one of the 
important factors in this business. 

Point 3 — Winter Layers 

Anconas are A-No. 1 winter layers — just at the time when eggs 
are commanding highest prices. They require no concentrated or 
expensive foods. 

Point 4 — Small Eaters 

Anconas eat less than any other breed. This is a big point to 
consider. It makes them the prize Economy Bird. 

40 



Point 5 — Beauty 

Anconas are beautiful fowls, a flock of them lends a sparkle to 
any landscape. — and catches the eye of all beauty lovers. The black 
background, contrasting with the clean white mottles, has a lustrous 
green sheen. 

Point 6 — Fine, Flavory Table Fowls 

Ancona meat is of fine grain and excellent flavor. They dress 
for quality rather than quantity. 

Point 7 — Vigorous Baby Chicks 

Baby chicks are hardy and vigorous. The death rate is low. They 
are independent little rascals, quick to develop to broiler stage. 

Point 8 — One Standard Color Scheme 

There is but one color — the mottled black and white. If a person 
wants Anconas, he can get down to business with them without dis- 
cussing such colors as brown, buff, red, white, black, silver, barred, 
penciled, Columbian, patridge, and so on. Considerable confusion and 
opportunity for dissatisfaction is avoided. 

Point 9— Quiet Birds ^ 

Anconas are not wild as some people stipposei They possess rilore 
poise than most Mediterranean birds— an(i yet haven't a lazy bone iii 
their bodies. 

Point 10— Anconas are Non-sitters 

You seldom hear of an Ancona cluck— a broody hen is a rare bird. 

Point 11 — Great Demand 

There is a tremendous and increasing demand for stock and eggs 
and all worthy Ancona breeders are scarcely able to fill orders. The 
average profit per hen, whether used as utility stock on a commercial 
egg farm, or as fancy stock to produce eggs for hatching, will vary 
from $2.00 to $25.00, depending upon conditions, and the economy of 
care and operation. It is a mighty poor ri;ianager who can't make 
some profit from thoroughbred Anconas. 

Point 12 — Unusual Prize Opportunities 

There are two thoroughly organized Ancona clubs to stimulate 
the exhibition interests of Ancona breeders. This gives zest to the 
game and there are always plenty of opportunities to win ribbons, med- 
als, cash and trophies at county, state and special fairs and exhibits. 

I might talk 'til I was blue in the face, but these twelve points 
seem to sum up the "Famous" Story pretty conclusively. And boiled 
down into even smaller space, and confining myself to three words 
(even if a couple of them are double jointed) I should say: 

"Egg-laying, prize-winning beauties" ! ■ 

And now to the Baby Chicks, for they deserve a department all 
their own! 

41 




Baby Chick Department 

Few things in the poultry business come in for more genuine 
interest and attention than Baby Chicks. 

For there is something immensely fascinating about these tiny, 
fluffy, 'Tamous" specimens. You can never tell, just by looking at 
one of them, how far it is going to "travel" in life. That's what 
makes it so interesting! 

This matter of success with Baby Chicks is largely a matter of 
vitality. If the chicks you buy have that quality, you don't need to 
worry. Not if you're reasonable — and follow directions. And this 
vitality is one of the things I breed for, and one of the things I 
watch in shipping. That is why I am so particular to see that every 
chick that goes into a box is strong and vigorous. I can't afford to 
send weaklings to my customers. 

After the chicks arrive, all of them bright and lively, I presume 
that my responsibility ought to end. Perhaps it does, but I don't 
figure it that way. 

The 72-Hour Lunch Basket 

So I am going to take time out right now to give you a few 
pointers on the care of Baby Chicks: 

When the Chicks are born, they carry their own "lunch-baskets" 
around with them, in the form of the egg yolk. This takes care of 
their need for solid food for about 72 hours, so there is no good 
excuse for feeding them until that time has passed. 

On the third day of their young lives, feed them chick-sized 
grit, 10%; charcoal, 10%; scratch feed, 80% — well mixed together. 
Place water before them on the second day. 

For ten days feed a small quantity of this mixture three times 
a day, on pans just what they will eat in fifteen minutes. From the 
fourteenth day until they are twelve weeks old feed scratch feed 
only in a litter four times a day, and keep the grit and charcoal in 
hoppers easily accessible to the birds. It is necessary to early en- 
courage industrious habits, hence by feeding the scratch feed in a 
litter (each litter should be two inches deep) the youngsters learn to 
scratch for the feed at an early date which gives them a lot of 
exercise and important training. 

42 



Feed the scratch grain suggested above, you may feed a dry 
mash to the chicks twice a day on pans what they will consume in 
about fifteen minutes. This ''goes" for the very first meal to the 
beginning of their fourth week. 

Skimmed milk or whole milk are desirable but not essential, as 
water is satisfactory. Do not use sweet milk one day and sour milk 
the next. Always feed either one or the other. 

Convenient feed pans about 4x10 — 1/2 inches deep can be secured 
at any tin shop for about 12 cents each. 

Be sure you give your chicks plenty of fresh water in clean drink- 
ing vessels. Remove the water vessels in the evening and wash them 
before returning in the morning. 



Plenty of Green Food 

Do not fail to furnish chicks with green food after they are four 
days old. Oat sprouts about four inches long, cut up fine with shears, 
makes a splendid feed for chicks when lawn clippings cannot be procur- 
ed. 

The scratch feed should consist of one-third cracked wheat, one- 
third fine cracked corn and one-third pinhead oatmeal. In case you 
cannot secure the fine cracked com, wheat and pinhead oatmeal, feed 
the best grade of commercial chick feed that you can secure from your 
dealer. Be careful not to feed any musty grain and do not feed at any 
time more than they will eat up clean. Brush the litter to one side and 
see that they are not leaving some grain under the litter on the floor. 

If you wish to especially force your chicks, after they are eight 
weeks old, give 50% milk mash, 10% beef scrap, 20% bran and 
20% fine corn meal, well mixed together. After the chicks are two 
months old, increase the size of the grain in the scratch feed. Some 
whole wheat may be added and medium size cracked corn. 

If you can't get a good Milk Mash to start the chicks on, you 
won't be far wrong if you start them on hard boiled eggs and bread 
crumbs, chopped very fine and well mixed together. If you follow 
this method, use the regular chick grains, or better still, use pinhead 
oatmeal. 

But follow, of course, the general principles of feeding as out- 
lined above. 

43 



On Incubators 

f Speaking of the brooder reminds me that a few pointers about 
incubators and brooders might not be amiss. 

We have large incubator cellars on the Sheppard Farm, and all 
our machines are heated by gas from a natural gas well on the place. 
This gas well is a gold mine. It cost me about $600 to put it down, 
but it is worth more today than I paid for the whole farm in the 
first place. Ideal conditions prevail for hatching chicks in our cellars, 
and our incubators, during the season, are kept going all the time. 
A constant stream of baby chicks keeps coming fromi our incubators 
and they are sold almost as fast as they arrive. A few of them 
we put aside in the brooding house for breeding purposes. 

I hesitate to say anything very definite about how you should 
handle your incubator, if you use one. The different styles and makes 
require just a little different treatment, and what I might say about 
one kind might not "go" for another. 

You can see, from the photograph below, that we are able to 
turn out a good many chicks every day. The picture shows only one 
comer in our cellars. Some days during the height of the season, 
we ship out as many as 4,000 baby chicks. 




cA corner in one of the incubator cellars 
44 




Interior of a section of one of the brooder houses. Also heated by gas. 



On Brooders 

After the chicks are forty-eight to sixty hours old, they should 
be removed from incubator to brooder. You want to be sure that the 
brooder is thoroughly clean, with a litter on the floor. Fine cut straw 
or chaff makes an excellent litter. 

Before removing the chicks from the incubator, see to it that 
the brooder is heated to 95 degrees and keep this temperature up 
during the cold weather, until the chicks are three weeks old. Then 
gradually run the temperature down so that it will register 90 de- 
grees when your feathered babies are six weeks old. Don't let the 
temperature fall below 80 degrees until the chicks are ready to leave 
the brooder. 

Change your litter often enough to keep it clean and sweet. 
Spray your brooder occasionally. Don't overheat chicks. More chicks 
are lost from too much heat than not enough. Watch them ! If they 
are crowding increase the heat a little. Also beware of drafts and air 
your brooder every day when practical. 

The picture above shows the kind of brooders we use here at 
Ancona Headquarters. This one building alone has a capacity of 
10,000 chicks a season. We do things on a big scale, and we can't 
give as much attention to individual chicks as you might give them, 
but our loss is remarkably low. 

45 




cA Corner in The Sheppard Shipping Room — lahere "Famous" Chicks begin their journey 

Only the Strongest Chickens are Shipped 

We make sure, when we send you baby chicks, that they are 
given a fair chance. So we eliminate every chick that seems to be 
a bit wobbly on its "pins", and send only those that act as if they 
were strong enough to stand the longest kind of a journey. We ship 
them in a box that is specially constructed, both light and strong, 
and made of a material that prevents wide variations in temperature. 
We have tried several types of boxes, and found the one we are now 
using to be the very best. 

All of these precautions are taken in order that the chicks will 
be in first class shape when they arrive at your home. Then, if 
you wish to kill them, it's up to you. Here are some pretty good 
ways to get rid of them: 



Keep them too hot, or too cold. 
Keep too many of them together. 
Letting them breathe foul air. 
Overfeed them. 

Keep their coops in a wet place. 
Giving them dirty, impure water. 

46 



My "Safe Arrival" Guarantee 

Many people do not understand how it is possible to send baby 
chicks on a journey of three or four days without inconvenience or 
danger to the chicks. The explanation has already been suggested — 
the *'lunch-basket" that the chicks are bom with. This egg-yolk is 
absorbed into the little system, and it is sufficient to keep the chick 
in health and comfort for several days after birth. 

With this information it is easy to understand how the little baby 
chicks can successfully withstand a long, tiresome journey. Within 
their delicate, fluffy bodies is the necessary nourishment. That is why 
I am able to make this guarantee. 

I prepay the postal charges on all original orders for baby chicks 
of one dozen or more. I guarantee chicks to reach you at least 95% 
alive. I do not ship anything but good, strong, vigorous chicks, and 
they usually arrive all alive and ready to spring out of the box. This 
guarantee does not cover chick orders for less than one dozen. When 
less than one dozen chicks are shipped, they are apt to become chilled 
on the way, and are shipped at the owner's risk. 

Under these conditions, if you do not receive 95% alive, we will 
replace the difference without charge in the next shipment, or will 
ship them at once if preferred. All claims should be mailed to me 
within 24 hours after the arrival of the chicks, and must be accom- 
panied by a voucher from your postman or express agent. 

On pages 86 and 87, you will find a number of testimonials from 
Sheppard customers in regard to the manner in which they receive 
the "Famous" chicks and the "life" and "pep" they possess even 
during the first few days. 

Prices on Sheppard's Famous Ancona Baby Chicks 

Single Comb 

Pens 40 to 60— $9.00 per 12; $18.00 per 25; $35.00 per 50; $65.00 per 

100. 
Pens 8 and 9— $1.50 each. 
Pens 2, 3, 4 and 5— $2.00 each. 

Rose Comb 

Pens M to T— $15.00 per 12; $30.00 per 25; $55.00 per 50; $98.00 

per 100. 
Pens B and C— $2.00 each. 

See pages 93 to 96 for prices on hatching eggs and stock. 

47 





ANCON A 



You can get a pretty good idea of the lay of the Sheppard land 
from the photographs above. 

Over to the left is the big "bam". This has often been referred 
to as the "center of the Ancona World". It is in this big barn-like 
building that we "carry on". It is here that your letters come; it 
is here that they are answered. Every day the postman brings great 
sacks of mail down the road to this "barn" ; every day he takes big 
sacks of it away. 

There are thirteen and one-half acres of land on this — my main 
plant. I lease six acres from my neighbors. In addition, I operate 
two branch farms, in order to take better care of my many custom- 
ers. All of the business of these several branches is directed from 
the Big Barn. If I liked, I imagine that I could afford a fine big 
suite of office rooms in some large building over in Cleveland (which 
is only a few miles away) but I prefer to remain here on the firing 
line. I enjoy being right in the midst of things where I can listen to 
the cackling and the crowing while I am answering your letters. I 
like the noise of battle and of victory — though it sometimes seems 
as if we would have to suspend operations in the office along about 
laying time. 

And I like to be right on the ground for another reason : in order 
that I can continue to give my personal attention to your orders. 




HEADQUARTERS 

Notice the long stretch of laying houses. Not all of them, of 
course, are shown — for we have many individual houses on the place. 

And notice the fine young trees — not only on this side of the 
houses but beyond them also. You can see for yourself that we have 
plenty of shade here at Headquarters. 

Headquarters! That's exactly what this is: Ancona Headquar- 
ters. If you doubt it, just look in any Poultry Journal — under the 
division, "Anconas", in the Classified Columns. Wherever the Strain 
is mentioned, see if the large majority of breeders are not offering 
the "Sheppard Strain". Most of them are — with my permission, of 
course. Where other "strains" are mentioned once or twice, you 
will find the "Famous" Strain twenty, twenty-fi.ve, or thirty times ! 

And perhaps you read the story which was published in "The 
Saturday Evening Post" last winter, entitled "The Yancona Yillies," 
by H. S. Hall. "Yillies" was the name given to the early-laying 
"Yancona" pullets. The main character in the story was "The 
Yancona King," who if I may say it myself, was H. Cecil Sheppard. 
So you can see that the Sheppard Farm is everywhere regarded as 
"Ancona Headquarters"! 



49 



"FAMOUS" ANCONAS AS PRIZE WINNERS 
Sheppard's "Famous" Anconas 

Have the champion show record by winning three times as many 
first prizes as all my competitors together at the world's greatest 
shows, including London, England, and Madison Square Garden, for 
the past fourteen years. They have the greatest egg record — 265 
average for a flock, and world's individual record of 335. 

This matter of being able to win the best prizes in the face of 
stiff competition at the Poultry Shows is so interesting and so im- 
portant that I believe it deserves a "department" all its own. 

How well I remember the first prizes I took! That was 'way 
back in 1907, and that very first year I made a clean sweep of all 
the best prizes offered. And I've been "cleaning house" on competi- 
tion ever since. About the only times I am ever beaten is when 
my own customers do it! 

You'll Get the "Fever"! 

Perhaps you are not very enthusiastic about winning prizes at 
the Shows. But once you own a flock of "Famous" birds you will 
probably never be content until you tested out their good points be- 
fore a competent judge, and in the face of keen competition. This 
is usually the way it works out. Indifference gives way to enthusiasm. 

And no wonder ! The birds demand it ! Wherever they are shown, 
"Famous" Anconas are the center of attraction. Right from the very 
first I saw the possibilities of the Ancona as a Show Bird, and so I 
have specialized to quite an extent on fine quality exhibition stock. 
The service I render in this connection can be summed up in the 
phrase. 

Thoroughbred Prize Winners at Reasonable Prices 

At the present time I have the grandest show birds ever seen on 
this farm — with a prospect of even more. If you need fresh blood 
introduced into your flock, try one of Sheppard's Famous Ancona 
cockerels bred from one of my famous sires. Watch the results ! 

Wonderful breeding hens and pullets are for sale in any quantity 
and we will make them produce winners if you desire. In taking up 
with us the matter of show birds, we would appreciate knowing just 
how strong your competition will be in order that I can tell you with- 
out delay the cost of exhibition birds that will win against your com- 
petition. I am just as anxious to have you win as you are to win, but 
you can appreciate that there is a great difference in quality wanted 
and in prices different parties wish to pay for their exhibition birds ; 
so when you tell me what kind of competition you will contend with, 
it permits me to advise you promptly just what I can do for you. 
You don't need to buy a $100.00 bird when a $50.00 one will win for 
you, and it's always a good plan to start fairly modestly and "w^ork 
up" on the proposition. 

50 




o 






05 

© 



■73 

'■a 
u 
a 

C5 

G 
O 
CO 



C 

N 






51 




MADISON SQUARE GARDEN 

(The building with the tall spire — just across the park) 

The annual Madison Square Garden event is everywhere recogniz- 
ed as America's First and Grandest Poultry Show. It is here that 
the best birds of the country come into competition, and it is here 
that I have won more than three times as many first prizes as all my 
competitors put together. This is the record of the past fourteen 
years, and I have won consistently— year after year. This shows 
what "Famous" Stock can do in the Show-Room! 

To give you an idea as to how sweeping the ''Famous" victory 
has been, I am going to list my Madison Square Garden winnings: 

New York City, 1908 — Sheppard's "Famous" Anconas sweep 
the great Madison Square Garden show. The most phenomenal win- 
ning of all times was awarded to my great strain in a most decisive 
manner, winning all the first and second prizes in the largest Ancona 
class up to this date. Was awarded diploma for best cockerel by the 
American Poultry Association. Have been awarded this distinction 
every year since — 14 consecutive years. 

52 



New York City, 1909 — With six entries I won first and second 
cockerel, second and third hen, first and third pullet, in a good strong 
class at the Madison Square Garden show. An excellent win in such 
competition. 

New York City, 1910 — In a large and strong class at the great 
Madison Square Garden show I made a great win by taking first, 
second and fourth cock, first, third and fourth cockerel, first and 
second hen, second, third and fourth pullet, and first pen. Was award- 
ed Grand Silver Cup for best display. Club special for the best cock, 
cockerel, hen, pullet and pen. Substantial evidence of the real merits 
of the blue ribbon strain — Sheppard's Famous Anconas. 

New York City, 1911 — At Great Madison Square Garden show, 
1911-1912, Sheppard's Famous Anconas again made nearly a clean 
sweep, making one of the grandest victories of any breeder at the 
nation's greatest show. In a very large and strong class we won eight 
first prizes out of a possible ten, and eight seconds out of ten. Enter- 
ed three cocks and won first, second and third on them. Won first, 
second, third and fourth on cockerel on four entries. We won first on 
both Rose and Single Comb pens. Also first and second Rose Comb 
cock, cockerel, hen and pullet. Was awarded Cash Special and Grand 
Silver Cup for best display on both Single and Rose Comb Anconas. 
Every bird I entered received a prize. The American Poultry Asso- 
ciation again awarded me diploma for best cockerel. 








Interior of Madison Square Qarden where many a "Famous" Victory has been won 

53 



New York City 1912 — Sheppard's Famous Anconas made a re- 
markable win in the most classic shows of all America, at Madison 
Square Garden, by winning first, second and third cock, first and 
second pullet, first and second pen. Gold special for best display. 
This year a united effort was made by several Ancona breeders to 
wrestle, if possible, the title of "The World's Best" from Sheppard's 
Famous Anconas. One breeder told me that a man came to him and 
said ''Anything to beat Sheppard's Famous Anconas at Madison 
Square," and wanted to buy anything he had. No stone was left un- 
turned, or any good Ancona left at home that could be bought by 
these parties. Yet my birds continued to set a pace for their com- 
petitors. 

North Randall Exposition, 1913 — In the largest show ever held 
in the state, and one of the largest in the country, Sheppard's Famous 
Anconas continue their victorious march by winning eight first prizes 
and eight seconds. In the Rose Comb class we won first and second 
cock, first and second hen, first and third cockerel, first and second 
pullet, first and second pen. In the Single Comb class we won first 
and second pen, first and second hen, first cockerel, second cock, 
second and third pullet. 




One of my finest '^se Comb Winners 
54 







«SW/55 JOSE'^HINE 
qA good many of my 'Prizes harve come jrom this bird 

New York City, 1914 — At the greatest show ever held in the his- 
tory of Madison Square Garden, which is considered to be the leading 
show of the world, Sheppard's Famous Anconas won eight times as 
many first prizes as their nearest competitor, and also gold special for 
best display. They made nearly a clean sweep by winning eight first 
and eight second prizes in one of the largest and strongest Ancona 
classes in the history of the big show. In the Rose Comb class, we 
won first, second and third cock, first, second and third hen, first 
second and third cockerel, first second and third pullet, first and third 
pen. In a very strong class of Single Comb hens we won first, second 
and fourth. In a class of twenty high grade cockerels we won first, 
second and third, also second cock and first pullet. 



Madison Square Garden, 1915 — At the great Madison Square 
Garden Show, February, 1915, Sheppard's Famous Anconas continued 
to stamp their superiority over their rivals by making another big 
sweep. They won seven times as many first prizes as their nearest 
competitor, in both Single and Rose Comb classes, in the largest and 
strongest class of Anconas to date. Also all first prizes in the male 
and pen classes, and gold special for best display. Out of a possible 
ten they won seven first prizes, also three seconds, six thirds, three 
fourths and six fifths, and diploma for best cockerel. 

55 



Madison Square Garden, 1916 

— Sheppard's Famous Anconas 
made almost another clean 
sweep at the imperial show of 
the nation — Madison Square 
Garden, New York City, i916, 
by winning in very strong com- 
petition, open to the world. In 
Rose Comb classes, first, second, 
fourth and fifth cockerel, first, 
second, fourth and fifth pullet, 
first, second, third, fourth and 
fifth cocks, first, second, fourth 
and fifth hens and first and sec- 
ond pen. In Single Comb classes, 
first and third cockerel, first, 
third, fourth and fifth pullets, 
second and third cocks, second, 
third and fourth hens, first pen. 
Also both gold specials for best 
display. 

Madison Square Garden, 1917 

— At the great 1917 Madison 
Square Garden show, Sheppard's 
Famous Anconas again made 
Ancona history by winning nine 
first prizes and two gold specials 
for best display, in both Rose 
Comb and Single Comb classes. 
Here are the figures. This was 
the tenth consecutive victory at 
this matchless show. Rose Comb, first, second, third and fourth 
cockerel, first, second, third and fourth pullet, first, second, third, 
fourth and fifth cock, first, second, third and fourth hen, first and 
second pen single comb, first, second and third cockerel, first, fourth 
and fifth pullet, first, third and fifth cock, fourth and fifth hen, first 
and fifth pen. Also two special prizes for best display in Single and 
Rose Comb classes. 




gRAND SILVE% CW^P 

Won at Madison Square Garden for best dis- 
play of oAnconas, both single and '^(pse Combs 
competing. My birds were a-warded Club Specials 
for best ^en. Cock, Cockerel, Hen and 'bullet. 



Madison Square Garden, 1918 — For the eleventh consecutive year, 
Sheppard's Famous Anconas made a marvelously great winning at 
Madison Square Garden — this being practically a clean sweep! At 
the 1918 show they won nine firsts, eight seconds, five thirds, five 
fourths and three fifths, also both gold specials for best displays in 
the Rose and Single Comb classes, and competition, as one of them 
put it, was "something fierce." 



56 




'VICTO% 
First Cockerel, Madison Square Garden. He returned next year and won first cock 



MADISON SQUARE GARDEN 1919 





ROSE 


COMB 


SINGLE 


: COMB 


Cock 

Hen 

Cockerel 

Pullet 

Pen 


1 
1 
1 
1 
1 


2 3 4 
2 3 4 
2 3 4 
2 3 4 

2 (2 entries) 


Cock 1 
Hen 1 
Cockerel 1 
Pullet 1 
Pen 1 


2 
2 
2 
2 
2 


3 

4 

3 4 5 

3 5 

(2 entries) 


Special for Best Rose Comb 
Display. 


Special for Best Si 
Display. 


ngle Comb 



For the 12th consecutive year Sheppard's Famous Anconas made 
a wonderful sweep at The Great Madison Square Garden Poultry 
Show. At this 1919 show they won all the first and second prizes. 

57 




^hese ^bbons are the most coveted of all SMadison Square Qarden awards. More than any other 
single feature, these 'Best T>isplay ^bbons indicate LEADERSHIP 



MADISON SQUARE GARDEN 1920 
Ten Firsts and Seven Seconds 





ROSE 


COMB 


SINGLE 


COMB 


Cock 


1 


2 5 


Cock 


1 


2 5 


Hen 


1 


3 4 


Hen 


1 


2 5 


Cockerel 


1 


3 4 5 


Cockerel 


1 


2 3 4 


Pullet 


1 


3 4 5 


Pullet 


3 


4 5 


Pen Old 


1 


2 (2 entries) 


Pen Old 


1 


3 (2 entries) 


Pen Young 1 


2 (2 entries) 


Pen Young 


1 


3 (2 entries) 


Special for Best Rose Comb 


Special for Best Single Comb 




Displ 


ay. 




Display. 



MADISON SQUARE GARDEN 1921 

ROSE COMB SINGLE COMB 



Cock 


1 


3 


4 5 


Cock 




1 


2 4 


Hen 


1 


2 


4 


Hen 




2 


5 


Cockerel 


1 


2 


3 5 


Cockerel 




5 




Pullet 


2 


3 


5 


Pullet 




1 


4 


Pen Old 


1 


3 




Pen Old 




1 


2 


Pen Young 


1 


o 




Pen Young 


2 


3 


Special for Best Rose Comb 


Special 


for Best 


Single Comb 




Display. 








Display. 



58 



A Long and Brilliant Record 

No doubt you will agree with me that ''P'amous" winings have 
been steadily consistent. For 14 years, without a single break, they 
have been leading the field by a nice wide, comfortable margin. This 
is the kind of performance that includes breeders all over the 
country to come to Ancona Headquarters when they want birds that 
will win the Big Prizes. 

I have concentrated on Madison Square Garden because it is the 
Nation's Grandest Show, and because it is there that the competi- 
tion is hottest. In former years, however, I have put my birds on ex- 
hibition at other first-class Shows. I "showed" at Cleveland for eight 
consecutive years — from 1907 to 1914 — and during this period we 
won ten times as many first and second prizes as our nearest com- 
petitor. Wherever "Famous" Anconas have been shown, they have 
swept the field. One year I took First Prize at the Great Dairy Show 
in London, England! 

So you can see that "Famous" victories have been both con- 
sistent and brilliant. 




SQifiS^^, ZiAsa^.* 



She has splendid records — both at the shows and on the nest 

59 



I am going to take the liberty, at this time, of injecting a few 
comments, made by poultry experts, into our friendly little chat to- 
gether : 

American Poultry Journal 
Comments by L. A. Stahmer 

Anconas when they are bred right and have the type which the 
Standard calls for, are a very beautiful variety of fowl. The illustra- 
tion of the first prize Single Comb Ancona cockerel at Madison Square 
Garden show shows the fine type and markings of this bird. Note 
the long back and fine typical carriage. Mr. Sheppard has been win- 
ning at Madison Square Garden for years, and repeated his former 
successes as usual at this show. He possesses the quality to make 
almost an ideal bird when matured. 

Reliable Poultry Journal 
By Judge Piatt 

Mr. Sheppard's first pullet was the star of the whole class. Her 
hackle was nicely tipped with white, and down over the back the 
tipping was evenly divided. While still young, this pullet was, in our 
opinion, the best Ancona female ever shown in the Garden. His Rose 
Comb cockerel had the best poise and most class of any Rose Comb 
ever seen in a coop. He had a neat head and was a beautiful bird, 
and you could never see him out of shape. 

American Poultry Advocate 
By M. K. Beyer 

The Ancona is a business fowl in every sense of the word. It not 
only proves itself to be a prolific layer of generous sized eggs, but it 
is par excellence as a producer of squab-broilers. Like all heavy 
layers of the Mediterranean class, it does not produce a large sized 
carcass for roasting purposes, but what it does give is found to be 
meaty, juicy and of good flavor. 

The Pittsburgh Dispatch 
By J. Leonard Pfeuffer, Poultry Editor 

I just want to say that the Anconas are certainly becoming more 
popular each and every season. They can thank H. C. Sheppard for 
this, as I believe he is doing more for the Anconas than all other 
breeders put together. I have no doubt that the Anconas are doing 
a great deal for him also. Well, they are undoubtedly a very hand- 
some fowl and when it comes to producing eggs and lots of them, 
they will take no back seat for any variety. 

American Poultry Journal 
By Prince T. Woods, M. D. 

Hot classes in both S. C. and R. C. Ancona classes. There were 
plenty of good birds in and out of the ribbons. H. Cecil Sheppard's 
first R. C. cockerel was good all over, and we had him out of the cage. 

60 




QUEE'^ — TS[ptice the markings on this fine T'rize Winner 




^MARSHALL ^MATCHLESS— First cockerel, Madison Square Garden, New York City 




'T)0%OTHr w 
qA '^se Comb Winner at Madison Square Qarden 



Beaten! — By My Own Customers 

You can imagine the pride I take in comments like these — ^from 
men who are experts. You can imagine too, the pride I take in 
walking away with the most desirable prizes at Madison Square 
Garden year after year. 

But I want to tell you right here that it gives me a thousand 
times more pleasure to have a customer win than to win myself. 
It's not what "Famous'^ Anconas do for me — it's what they do for my 
customers! That is why I don't mind saying that I have been beaten 
a number of times by my own customers. And not only beaten by 
the Stock I sold, but also by Stock raised from ''Famous" Hatching 
Eggs! 

If you are thinking of ordering Show Birds, be sure to tell me 
just about what you want. Tell me at what Show you hope to win, 
what kind of competition you think you'll be up against, and so on. 
This information will help me in picking out a winner for you. 

In winding up this Prize-Winning Department let me say this: 
You'll never know what a heap of fun there is in Poultry Shows 
until you've won your first Blue Ribbon — so go after it ! 

62 







t^ 



>. 
p 

^ 



c3. 









Oh 



■X3 

C 



63 



PRESENTING THE "FAMOUS" 
EVIDENCE 

If you have been "following" me through all these pages, you 
will agree that I have made out a pretty good case for Sheppard's 
"Famous" Anconas. 

I have claimed that: 

Anconas produce more eggs on less feed than any other breed I 
know — 

Anconas lay more Winter Eggs than any other breed — 

Anconas lay large, white eggs the whole year 'round — 

Anconas mature rapidly, are hardy, and make money for their 
owners. 

I've said a lot of other things too. So now it's up to me to back 
up the statements I have made — to call on the witnesses — to present 
the evidence. I am going to call upon my customers — we shall see 
what they have to say. The Court is now open! 

4 



DO ANCONAS LIVE UP TO THEIR REPUTATION 

AS HEAVY LAYERS? 



The profit in poultry is largely a matter of getting the eggs — 
not by fits and starts and spurts — but heavily and consistently. So 
the following evidence ought to be of considerable interest to you. 

H. C. S. 

268 Average for Flock! 

California — I have been highly pleased with the results I have 
gotten from stock of your strain. From a setting of eggs I got 15 
chicks. From this hatch I raised 10 pullets, which averaged 236 
eggs in their pullet year. In their second year they averaged 
268. This is convincing proof that Sheppard's '"Famous" Anconas 
are all you claim for them. S. C. 

"Most Persistent Layers I Ever Saw" 

Texas — I am more than pleased with the Ancona hens I bought 
of you. They are the most persistent layers I ever saw. 

F. R. B. 

64 




"Hard to Get Pictures — but a Cinch to Get Eggs" 

Pennsylvania — The small flock of day-old "Famous" Anconas that I purchased 
last year as an experiment for my back-yard has certainly proven a success. As 
they were of the July 4th hatch, we dubbed them "Firecrackers". On Christmas 
morning they presented their first egg", and at this date (June 24) they are still 
laying with no sign of a vacation. 

My seven hens have the wonderful record of 931 eggs in six months. Some 
one may have a back-yard flock that beats this, but this record satisfies me. 
Enclosed find snap-shop of the "Firecrackers". It's hard to get pictures of these 
hustlers, but a cinch to get eggs from them. — W. J. M. 

Some Record 

Ohio — I have 25 "Famous" hens and I got more eggs from these 25 than the 
the farmers in this country who had from 100 to 150 hens of other breeds this 
winter. — M. T. 

"Best Layers in the World" 

New Mexico — My experience with Anconas has convinced me that they are 
the best layers in the world. They act as if they never intended to quit laying. 
—J. H. 

She Waited One Day! 

Vermont— I have in my flock of 83 "Famous" hens, one individual that com- 
pleted her second year by laying 322 eggs in 366 days. She ended her laying 
year December 15th, waited one day, and is now at it again. — E. A. B. 

He Holds the Record 

New Jersey — My "Famous" Anconas outlay anything in this vicinity. I 
hold the egg record of the neighborhood. — 0. E. G. 



"The Only Fowl for Egg Production!" 

Rhode Island — Last July you shipped me 28 "Famous" chicks. I raised them 
all — 22 pullets and 6 cockerels — and am getting from 14 to 18 eggs every day. 
They are the only fowl for egg production. — G. H. W. 

65 



t-;. ^?!^'*tl-. -*«>-n 




"Anything to Boom the Breed" 

Rhode Island — Enclosed find snap-shot of my "Famous" Anconas 
and put it down that I am always ready to do anything to boom the 
breed. I have had experience with quite a number of other breeds, 
but have never had any that could equal the Ancona for laying qual- 
ities and economy of upkeep. 

The pen in the picture turned in an average of 261 eggs in a 
year. My Hen No. 20, hatched from "Famous" Eggs purchased of 
you, has been shown five times, winning 5 firsts. She has an egg- 
record of 291. Hen No. 42, daughter of No. 20 — the third generation 
down from the stock I bought of you — was shown nine times last 
fall and winter and was never beaten. Dr. H. W. C. 

An Average of 256 Each! 

Seven Pullets hatched from eggs purchased from Ancona Head- 
quarters have laid an average of 256 eggs each for one year. 

G. W. I. 
6 Pullets— 1190 Eggs 

Ohio — In just twelve months my "Famous'' pullets — six of them 
—laid 1190 eggs. M. J. G. 

"Best Layers I Ever Saw" 

Vermont — My pullets are doing fine. I have 13 and I average 10 
or 12 eggs a day. I think they are the best layers I ever saw. 



Can You Beat This? 

Ohio — It may interest you to know that I have two Ancona hens 
nearly thirteen years old, and one almost twelve. They lay as well as 
the younger chickens. C. W. D. 

10 a Day from 15 Pullets 

Maryland — Have a pretty pen of fifteen pullets and one cockerel. 
I am now getting an average of ten eggs per day. B. C. B. 

128 Eggs in 122 Days! 

Nebraska — Thought perhaps you might be pleased to know that 
we have a ^'Famous" hen that has, since March 4th laid an egg every 
day including today, (July 3rd) , and has, on six days during this time, 
laid two eggs. This makes 128 eggs in 122 days! Every egg is per- 
fectly formed and full weight. W. Y. E. 

66 



ARE ANCONAS WINTER LAYERS? 



Keep in mind, while you are reading these letters, that the re- 
sults mentioned are those obtained — in most cases — by amateurs 
and beginners. This fact makes these winter-egg records all the 
more remarkable. And remember also, that it is during the winter 
that egg profits are at their highest. H. C. S. 



6i 



The Coldest Weather Did Not Stop Them" 

Rhode Island — Am not a 
very good hand at taking pic- 
tures, but here is one I hope 
you can use. 

The pen I purchased from 
you soon paid for themselves, 
and they have laid all winter 
long. The coldest weather did 
not stop them laying, while 
our other chickens did not 
lay at all in the winter 
months. My wife says she 
wishes she had known of 
these great winter layers long 
before this. Then we would 
have had eggs the whole year 
around. 

We now have a good start 
with the Sheppard Strain, 
and will keep building up our 
flock until we have nothing 
but "Famous" Anconas on 
our farm. — P. K, 

No Matter How Cold! 

Maine — '"Famous" Anconas lay all winter, no matter how cold it 
is. The colder the weather, the better they lay. G. R. M. 

Didn't Get Cold Feet! 

Vermont — The coldest day we had (45 degrees below zero) I got 
17 eggs from my 22 pullets — and this in an open front hen-house! 
Their combs were more or less nipped, but they did not get "cold 
feet." 

67 





<<1 



'Best Winter Layers I Ever Saw" 

South Dakota — I hope the picture suits you — it was the best I 
could get. 

I am certainly more than pleased with my Anconas, for they \b^ 
such large, white eggs. And best of all, they are the best winter lay- 
ers I ever saw or heard of. Another thing: the baby chicks are so 
very easy to raise. It's Anconas for me — every time. J. T. G. 

A Wonderful Showing! 

Ohio — ^Today I gathered 25 eggs from a pen of 28 pullets. It is 
a wonderful showing for the 2nd of February. C. E. B. 

Certainly Convinced ! 

Indiana — I am certainly convinced that Anconas are the great- 
est winter layers and I have tried several varieties of chickens. 

The Coldest Weather in Years 

Michigan — Received my "Famous" Anconas on January 17, and 
am more than pleased with them. When you consider that these 
birds are laying during the coldest weather we have had in years, 
it proves that Sheppard's "Famous" Anconas are the best that money 
(»n buy. W. J. S. 

Out in the Snow and Cold 

Minnesota — I have had three different breeds of chickens in 
the past, but have found that Anconas are the only ones I can get 
eggs from in the winter. My chickens have been out in the snow 
and cold every day, while my neighbors have theirs closed in for 
the winter. Mine are laying, while every one else is complaining that 
their chickens are not. F. W. C. 

Way Up in Manitoba 

Manitoba, Canada — We had a very early winter here — a month 
ahead of usual — so I did not expect to get any eggs. But my pullets 
have been laying right along — with the weather from zero to 32 
below. C. C. S. 

68 






69 



HOW ABOUT EARLY LAYING? 



This matter of getting an early start is also of some importance. 
The bird that lays early, consistently, and late is the one that pads 
the bank account. You probably noticed the letter that tells of the 
Anconas that are still laying at the ages of 12 and 13 years. To say 
the least, this is rather remarkable, but equally remarkable are the 
early -laying records which I am here offering. These letters go to 
prove that Anconas pay for their "board and keep" very early in 
life. 

Laying at Three and One Half Months ! 

New Jersey — Having read in 
some of your letters from differ- 
ent people about their "Famous" 
pullets laying at the age of four 
months, I thought that it might 
be of some interest to you to 
know that one of mine began 
her laying career at just three 
and a half months. It seems al- 
most unbelievable, but it is 
nevertheless true. 

"Famous" Anconas grow fast- 
er than any breed I have ever 
seen, yet they eat just half as 
much. My cockerels began crow- 
ing at six weeks. Every bird I 
have is crammed full of pep, 
and yet they are all as tame as. 
kittens. All of the cockerels 
have been given names, and 
each of the children have their 
own favorite pets. 

Any man who is closed up in 
an office all day as I am, will find 
nothing more fascinating and 
more of a relaxation than to in- 
vest in your "Famous" Anconas. 
The picture shows my wife and 
some of our "speckled beauties" — and the only sad part about it all is 
that they seem to be getting more attention from my wife that I am f 

Dr. S. B. 
Celebrated Their Fourth Birthday 

New York — Received the 24 lively, beautiful chicks you shipped 
me all 0. K. On their fourth anniversary, they started to lay. 

R. D. 
Four Months and Nine Days 

Ohio — Pullets began laying when four months and nine days. 
They certainly are the original egg machines, especially in the winter 
time. F. A. B. 

70 




Something Wrong the Second Day! 

New York — One of the pullets you sent me laid her first egg on 
the day she was 4 months old. She skipped the second and, and has 
laid an egg every day since. This is almost too much for my neigh- 
bors to believe. S. N. W. 



Illinois — My 
25 days old. 



3 Months and 25 Days 

'Famous" pullets began laying when 3 months and 

V. B. 



WHAT ABOUT ANCONA "WILDNESS"? 




I could go on for page after 
page with letters on each of 
these points — but what's the 
use? Just a few of them es- 
tablish my statements. Take 
this question of "wildness", for 
example. I have scores of let- 
ters from customers on this one 
point alone, but a dozen will 
serve as well as a dozen dozen. 

H. C. S. 



Some of the "Wild" Ones 

New York — I want to assure 
you that the "Famous" Anconas 
you sold me are doing fine and 
producing the eggs. The picture 
shows a few of the "wild'* ones. 
I have several of these same 
"wild" ones that perch on my 
head and shoulders. G. W. D. 



They Eat Out of My Hand 

Pennsylvania — Our Anconas are dandies — so tame and nice. 

They eat out of my hand. 

I Can Pick Them Up 

Missouri — Received the 'Tamous" cockerels Saturday. Thank 
you very much for the selection. They are so tame I can pick them 
up any time. B. F. 

71 



Here's One of the "Wild Ones" 



New Jersey — You will note 
that this young rooster is 
tame enough to crow while be- 
ing held. 

My ''Famous" birds have cer- 
tainly paid for themselves. They 
are the best layers in the neigh- 
borhood. Several people have 
bought stock from you after see- 
ing my flock. 0. E. G. 

They Are Very Tame 
British Columbia, Canada — 

My birds commenced laying at 
the age of four months. This 
speaks well for your strain and 
proves all the claims you make 
for your Anconas. I have kept 
them in a yard with a fence 
only four feet high. They are 
very tame and do not mind the 
cold winters. P. S. 

Demure Little Beauties 

South Carolina — I like my 
flock of "Famous" birds very 
much, and I think you have the 
greatest fowls in the world. 
"Demure little beauties" well de- 
scribes them. W. W. R. 

Tame As a Dog 

Pennsylvania — My "wild" cockerel is as tame as a dog. He will 
fly on my shoulder and I can walk with him all over the yard, and 
I can go into the kitchen, take him off my shoulder and set him 
down. J. K. 

"Your Stock is Not Wild" 

Tennessee — The cockerel came through safely and in good shape. 
He is making himself at home, and is very gentle. Your stock is not 
wild. W. H. M. 

Tamest Chickens He Ever Raised 

Maryland — Anconas are not wild. I can go among them and 
pick them up without exciting them in the least, as they do not 
mind my handling them at all. They are the tamest chickens I ever 
raised, and I have tried not less than a dozen different varieties. — 

Cx. L. G. 

Anconas in a 4-foot Pen 

Missouri — I have a friend who has a dozen Ancona hens. She 
can go out into the yard and pick any one of them up. As for fly- 
ing, she keeps them in a pen only four feet high. O. C. S. 

72 




HOW ABOUT "UPKEEP"? 



This is important too! What does it cost you to produce a 

dozen eggs? And here again 
"Famous" Anconas are in the 
lead. They produce more eggs 
at a lower production cost per 
dozen than any other known 
breed. Largely because they 
are such light eaters, and such 
heavy layers! — H. C. S. 




-I 



^^^ 









A Low Upkeep Cost 

Missouri — The picture shows 
my little girl and her pet An- 
conas. We are going to confine 
our flock exclusively to them, 
as they are easy to keep in 
small quarters and very tame. 
Then too, they are good layers 
with but little attention and a 
low upkeep cost. R. E. M. 



I 



On a Minimum of Feed 

Wisconsin — ^We are getting splendid results from "Famous" 
Stock. We get about 40 to 48 eggs every day from our flock of 55 
hens. They are good layers on a minimum of food. — G. A. P. 

How Do They Do It? 

Michigan — What I would like to know is this: Are all Anconas 
small eaters ? Mine don't seem to eat enough to keep alive, but they 
all look good, and their combs are red, and they are certainly laying. 

O. L. 
"I Never Saw the Like" 

Ohio — My pullets are all laying well, but I have to be very care- 
ful how much I feed. I never saw the like. It takes almost nothing 
to keep them. A. M. 

Larger Eggs on Less Feed 

Canada — One of the reasons I decided on "Famous" Anconas is 
this: Although they lay as large or larger eggs than other breeds, 
the Anconas do not consume so much feed per bird. C. L. M. 

73 



ARE ANCONAS "HARDY"? 



Will they stand hot weather as well as cold w^ .hfi ? Are they 
easily subject to disease? Do you have to be ir cot^^* xm\ "dancing 
attendance" upon them? Do they require ''pamptung"? Can they 
stand confinement? Will they lay under discouraging conditions? 
Do they have to be ''milk-fed" in order to produce eggs? All of 
these thiiigs ought to enter into your decision, and Anconas stand 
ace high on all those points. H. C. S. 




They Have Changed Their Minds 

South Carolina — After trying for a few hours to get a good pic- 
ture of Anconas, I concluded that it was no cinch — they won't stand 
for it! 

Some of my friends once told me that Anconas were not the 
fowl for this warm climate. However, their minds have been remark- 
ably changed, for these same friends are now buying eggs for hatch- 
ing from me. W. S. J. 

In a Small Back Yard 

Michigan — Too much cannot be said for "Famous" Anconas. 
The coop I keep my flock in is only 6x18 and their Httle yard about 
the same, but still they look just fine and are laying every day. 
Have been getting as high as 15 eggs from 18 pullets. 

W. L. R. 

Disease Shows Up Ancona Hardiness 

Nebraska — Sorry to state that we have lost $300 worth of breed- 
ing stock from Roup. But note this: These were all of another 
strain. The "Famous" pen showed its remarkable vitality under 
bad conditions, for not one of them contracted the disease. 

F. C. 

74 



In Spite of a Poor Chance! 

New York — The pullets I raised from your ''Famous" chicks 
laid an average of over 200 eggs for the first year. One made the 
splendid trapnest record of 285. I consider this very good, consid- 
ering the fact that these birds have not had a good chance. 

H. H. W. 

No Disease in Seven Years 

North Carolina — For pure vigor, "Famous" Anconas have the 
world beat. In the seven years I have been breeding Anconas, I have 
had no disease of any kind in my flock. — W. M. 

Fine, Thrifty Stock 

Missouri — I have some fine, thrifty ''Famous" stock. They are 
the greatest egg producers I have ever seen, and seem to be practic- 
ally immune from sickness. R. B. H. 



DO SHEPPARD CUSTOMERS WIN PRIZES? 

Here is a pretty good test of a breeder's idea of a square 
deal. I have already told of how often I have been beaten by 
"Famous" Stock in the hands of my customers. This don't 
bother me a bit. It is when a bird from some other strain 
"slips one over on me" that I began to sit up and take notice. 
Let me assure you, though, that this is rather rare. It usually 
takes one "Famous" bird to beat another ! 



162 Ribbons and 2 Silver Cups 

Iowa — Your books will show you that I bought chicks and eggs 
from you in 1915. From them I have since won 162 Ribbons and 
2 Silver Cups — thanks to you. W. 0. D. 

At the County Fair 

Wisconsin — Out of the 12 "Famous" Chicks received from you 
this year, I took three pullets and three cockerels to our County 
Fair, and received 1st and 2nd on pullets and also 1st and 2nd ohl 
cockerels. C. C. P. 



75 




The Lion's Share of the Credit 

Ohio — It is no wonder that you can carry off honors of the 
World's Greatest Poultry Show, when you put out chicks with such 
vitality — we raised every single chick received from you! 

The bird shown in the picture has ta.ken the Blue and the Pur- 
ple as the best in her class. In our last local Show, we entered a 
pen and two singles — 3 entries — and won 3 firsts. 

My flock has made me $6.00 per bird for the last five months, 
and I am compelled to give the "Famous" Anconas the, lion's share 
of the credit, for I am an amateur without poultry experience. 
This record was not made under the most favorable conditions, as 
the chicks were raised in a box 3x4 feet, and they were entirely 
without artificial heat until 10 weeks old. As present I have a flock 
of 600 Anconas, and am well on the road to poultry success. 

Good Show Winners ^- ^- ^• 

Illinois — The Anconas I bought of you are centainly good show 
winners. They took 1st, 3rd, 4th and 5th at our Show. A. M. 

Eleven "Wins" Out of Eleven Entries 

Massachusetts — I am very much pleased with results at the 
Show this year. I entered eleven birds and received eleven ribbons. 

And there were large entries this year. M. E. C. 

First Prize — from the State 
Wisconsin — Am writing to tell you about the chicks I purchased 
from you last April. I received first prize on them from the State 
on project work — a solid gold pin and $10.00. W. E. D. 

76 




If you get an extra 
good picture of 
your Anconas — 

send it in. I'll be 
glad to see it! 



77 



HOW DO ANCONAS "STACK 

UF' WITH OTHER BREEDS? 

What has been the experience of people v/ho have tried a 
number of different breeds? Are Anconas chosen in preference, 
not only to the heavy fowls but also to the other so-called "egg- 
laying types"? Even when competition is hottest, cain they 
hold their lead? If you choose Anconas, will they give you the 
best egg-record in the neighborhood or will you have to take off 
your hat to the owner of some other breed? — See what these 
people — people who have tried other varieties — have to say 
about it. H. C. S. 




More Eggs on Less Feed 

Kentucky — I started in the chicken business eight years ago, 
trying almost every well-known kind of fowl. But I have never 
seen a breed that could lay with these Anconas! They lay more on 
less feed than any chickens I ever tried. 

The old saying has it: "Egg money is pin money", but if you 
have Anconas, they will build houses and pay any kind of a debt. No 
praise is too high for these "speckled beauties." 

Hope you can use the picture. R. J. 

i 20 Years of Experience 

New York — Th-? flock of "Famous" Anconas bought of you 
proved to be far ahead of any I ever owned. One hen laid over 100 
eggs consecutively, never missing one day during that time. I be- 
lieve, from 20 ^ 'ars of experience, that the Anconas — and especially 
Sheppard's — are world beaters. G. W. D. 

Better Than Any Other Strain 

Kentucky — I don't think that Anconas could possibly be excelled 
for laying. I have had the Sheppard Strain for two years, and I 
like them better than any chicken I have ever raised. They are all 
you claim for them— and then more. J. W. 

78 



A Wide Experience 

West Virginia — In regard to the bird you shipped me recently, 
1 wish to say that he arrived in fine condition and that we are satis- 
fied in every way. The bird was not for myself, but I was agent for 
another party. Having had a wide experience with poultiy of var- 
ious breeds, I knew right where to go to get the best in Anconas. 

A. B. C. 

Closed to Other Breeds 

Ohio^Two years ago I started with the Ancona. None of the 
other breeds can enter my pen. My neighbors, at that time, had all 
kinds of birds — but you can go to these same neighbors today and it 
is all Anconas. One of my neighbors has something like 500 or 600 
of them. C. L. L. 

"The Bird for Me!" 

Illinois — I am surely proud of my "Famous'^ Anconas. Have 
been raising other breeds for several years, but this is one year I 
made a good change. From now on, the Ancona is the bird for me! 

E. E. K. 
15 Different Varieties 

Idaho — I have tried about 15 different varieties of chickens — 
and 5 different strains of^^ — — and I have found that the Anconas 
always mature and start laying first. Will raise nothing else next 
year. J. W. W. 

"Greatly Pleased with My Purchase" 

Maryland — My fifty ''Famous" chicks arrived March 31. They 
are just a "number one," bunch! Never had a bit of trouble with 
Diarrhea, which has been my trouble with other breeds. I am 
greatly pleased with my purchase. J. H. H. 

Twice as Many Eggs 

Michigan — I have 11 pullets of the "Famous" Strain, and those 
11 pullets lay more eggs by 50% than 25 others of another breed 

for which I paid a big price. — S. K. 

"Give Us Anconas Every Time 

Oregon — We now have 125 Ancona hens, 100 pullets, and 24 
baby chicks. We wouldn't trade our "Famous" flock for 1,000 of 
any other kind. Give me the Ancona every time! J. L. 

After 28 Years 

Connecticut — I have tried different breeds for 28 years but 
never had anything that looked as good to me as Anconas. 

F. H. B. 

79 



ARE ANCONAS MONEY-MAKERS? 



A lot depends on the answer to this question. Taking every- 
thing into consideration, are they money-makers Of course, they 
are fine-looking fowls — and of course, they lay eggs — but has the 
average poultry raiser been able to make money from them? Not 
the expert, but the average amateur! I have scores of enthusiastic 
letters on this point, but I shall only submit a few. H. C. S. 




11 Anconas Lay More Eggs Than 60 Others! 

New York — I am a boy sixteen years of age and have been 
raising chickens for the last five years. Last year I attended the 
Show at Madison Square Garden, and determined to have some of 
those "speckled beauties." 

I raised 11 pullets from chicks received June 15. I had 60 other 
chickens during the winter, but my 11 speckled egg-producers laid 
more eggs than the entire 60 — every day. So I have sold the 60 
chickens of the other breed, and shall keep nothing but "Famous" 
Anconas from now on. 

During March I sold $19.62 worth of Ancona eggs. The feed 
for this period cost $2.55, leaving a profit for the month of $17.07. 
I might also add that these were all eggs for market, none being 
sold for hatching purposes. This profit convinced me that I had 
made no mistake in disposing of my other stock. I now have 168 
thriving youngsters on my back lot range and expect to sell young 
cockerels in a few weeks. C. J. H. 

80 




Here's a Man Who Has to Cut Down 
On Anconas — or Pay an Income Tax! 

Michigan — Am sending you some amateur pictures of Anconas. 
I call them "amateur" because they do not show up the fowls or 
give them proper credit — they are too busy to pose and I do not 
understand cameras. 

But I will say this: After trying every known breed and strain 
for ten years — and footing the bills myself — I am about discouraged 
with poultry. But I sent for a few "Famous" Chicks, and in the last 
five years I have been making money from poultry. In one of the 
pictures you can see the Ancona's first little coop — in the other, you 
can see the fine large laying house they have earned for themselves. 
And I am now building an 80-foot addition. My Anconas have paid 
for everything, and I have either got to cut down on Anconas or pay 
an income tax this year. ._So I am giving up my position at $2,000 
a year to give all my time to Anconas. And I am not struck with 
"chicken fever" either, but it is the eggs and beauty of the birds 
that pay the freight. D. H. J. 

lOc More Per Dozen 

Florida — Anconas are the best chickens I have ever raised. I 
get 10c more per dozen for their eggs than I do for other kinds, 
owing to their better size and color. E. B. M. 

$100 Profit on Eggs Alone! 

Missouri — This is a statement of what I sold from the pen I 
bought and six pullets I raised from your baby chicks: 

Sold 8 pullets— $2.00. Sold 49 pullets and 1 rooster— $150.00. 
Sold 1 rooster $8.50—. Sold young roosters to butcher— $ 72.00 

Total— $250.00. 
I still have 69 pullets that are all very fine layers, also the 
original hens and rooster. And I have $100.00 cash profit on hand 
from selling table eggs alone. S. E. B. 

81 




Profit on Anconas. $5.29 

Profit on Others. 98c 

Michigan — I'm not prepared to give up my business to raise 
chickens, but I must confess that they are winning more of my at- 
tention and interest almost daily. So I am writing to tell you of 
the splendid record made by "Famous" Anconas on a city lot, and 
under conditions of restricted quarters and close confinement. The 
point of the whole matter is the opportunity it affords me for com- 
parison with other breeds. 

Our eleven "Famous" Anconas were hatched June 15th, from 
eggs I bought from you, and commenced to lay in November. They 
were going full blast in December. In January our eleven Ancona 
pullets made us a net profit of $5.29 while thirty-three other chick- 
ens could only produce a profit of $0.98. I didn't need this particu- 
lar demonstration of Ancona superiority to convince me that my 
other breeds were being left far in the rear. From the very first 
they had begun to outlay my other fowls. But January added the 
knock-out blow. Eleven Anconas — profit $5.29, 33 others — profit 
$0.98 ! As individuals, on an average, the other fowls earned 3 cents 
apiece, while the Anconas earned 48 cents. Some difference! And 
I wish to emphasize the fact that all my chickens received the same 
care and treatment. 

From March 18 to June 10, we sold hatching eggs to the 
amount of $66.00 besides hatching 120 chicks for ourselves. July 
1 we sold 8 to 12 weeks old cockerels to the market for about $1.00 
each. 

Right now, in mid-summer, our Anconas are laying on an aver- 
age of 70%. There is no sign of a let-up. We consider this to be 
a rather remarkable record after having laid consistently all winter 
and spring. 

Anconas represent to the city man who must purchase expen- 
sive foods a considerable saving. In my own experience, I have learn- 
ed that my other breeds consume almost twice as much per bird as 
do the Anconas. S. K. 

82 





$600 Net Profit 

—or How Mrs. E. "Converted" 

Her Husband 

Ohio — Several years ago I was 
in very poor health and realized 
that outside work in the open air 
was what I needed. So I started 
in to care for chickens as I had 
always thought it would be in- 
teresting work. After trying sev- 
eral breeds, I noticed an Ancona 
"ad" in one of the poultry maga- 
zines and sent for 30 Ancona 
hatching eggs. I got 25 of the nic- 
est, fluffiest chicks I ever saw. Just 
three months and twenty days 
from the time of hatching they commenced to lay. 

My husband had never been very enthusiastic about my chick- 
ens. He said that I was going in on too big a scale — that the work 
would be too heavy for me. In fact he had always tried to discour- 
age me. But when my Anconas began to lay, he began to sit up and 
take notice. Without my asking for it, he decided to build me a new 
chicken house. He had always been in the habit of calling the flock 
"my wife's chickens." Now it is "our Anconas" and he takes as 
much interest and pride in them as I do. He follows the daily egg 
record as closely as he does the baseball averages in the big leagues. 
He even cafls himself an "Ancona fan." 

The new chicken house gave me a chance to increase my flock. 
That year I had 160 Anconas which paid me as follows : 

Baby chicks ..$ 424.35 

Market eggs __ 215.75 

Stock __.. 550.00 

Total ._. ..$1190.10 

After deducting all my expenses I found that I had made a net 
profit of over $600. Here was another surprise for my husband. 

Just think of the dandy boost I have given our household finan- 
cially. With the profits from our Anconas we have bought an auto- 
mobile and a lot of other things we have always wanted but could 
never afford. Mrs. E. 

83 



HOW ABOUT "FAMOUS" HATCHING EGGS? 



You know, as well as I do, that elaborate promises never hatched 
a single egg. The eggs have got to be fertile, and I am glad to say 
that "Famous" Hatching Eggs have a nation-wide reputation for 
high fertility. Before I have a few of my customers testify on this 
important point, I wish to give my Hatching Eggs Guarantee. 

H. C. S. 



Guarantee for Hatching Eggs 

I guarantee eggs to run at least 75% fertile, although, 
the fertility usually runs 85% to 95%. In case eggs do not run 
75% fertile or better, I will duplicate the order at one half 
of the regular price. This guarantee is good for every month 
of the year, excepting the severe weather. It is not necessary 
to return infertile eggs. Your statement will be accepted. 

However, customers are seldom compelled to remind me 
of my guarantee. Listen to these high fertility percentages! 



Out of 15 Eggs I Got 14 Baby Chicks 

Alabama — I received the eggs in good order and out of the 15 
eggs I got 14 baby chicks and pretty as they can be. I believe they 
are the best I ever saw. They are three weeks old today. I thank 
you for your kindness and trouble. T. M. 

Had a Good Hatch and Raised Them All 

Pennsylvania — Received 45 eggs from you. Had a good hatch 
and raised them all. Got my first egg the day they were five months 
old and they have been right at it ever since. My pullets are good 
in color and shape. 0. E. H. 

Eggs Received in Fine Condition 

Alabama — Eggs received in fine condition. They look fine. Your 
generosity exceeded my expectations, for which accept my sincere 
thanks. V. A. H. 

26 Healthy Chicks Were Hatched 

Manitoba — Regarding the shipment of 30 eggs, I wish to take 
this opportunity to thank you for the very generous treatment you 
gave me. I am very pleased to state that 26 healthy chicks were 
hatched from those eggs and they are doing fine. W. H. H. 

"I Like them and They Pay" 

Pennsylvania — I got 12 strong, fine chicks out of the 15 eggs. 
The pullets laid all winter and are still at it and don't seem to think 
about quitting. They are fine layers and I am going to get rid of all 
my others and raise nothing but Anconas from now on. I like them 
and they pay. F. W. G. 

84 



I 



Eggs Arrived in Good Shape 

Texas — The eggs came today. They arrived in good shape, and 
were carefully packed. They are certainly beautiful eggs and it is 
remarkable how uniform in shape and size. 

30 from 30! 

Wisconsin — Out of my two settings I got a perfect hatch — 30 
chicks out of 30 eggs — and I raised them all but one. B. H. 

28 Out of 30 

New York — I am writing to tell you of the wonderful luck I had 

out of the eggs I bought of you. I got 28 chicks out of the 30 eggs. 

I opened people's eyes here considerable, as there was a rumor out 

that your eggs were not fertile, which I find to be absolutely false. 

C. A. E. 
A 100% Hatch 

Ohio — You will be interested in knowing that I got a 100% 
hatch from the eggs I received of you, and I certainly feel that I 
have made a very wise choice in buying Sheppard's '"Famous" Ancon- 
as. W. M.W. 

14 Chicks out of 15 Eggs 

Pennsylvania — It gives me great pleasure to let you know that 
I have 14 fine healthy chicks out of the 15 "Famous" eggs. H. T. 

"A Wonderful Hatch" 

New York — The setting of 15 eggs you sent me last March 
hatched 15 healthy, vigorous "Famous" chicks. I am well pleased 
with them ... it was a wonderful hatch. 0. G. K. 

The Wonder of the Neighborhood 

Connecticut — Received the setting of Ancona eggs 0. K. and 
set them on May 20. The hen broke one, but on the 11th of June, 
I got 14 good healthy chicks — the wonder of the neighborhood. It's 
nothing but Anconas for me ! L. F. T. 

Not a One Broken 

North Carolina — Received all the eggs 0. K. Never saw a nicer 
packed box of hatching eggs — not a one broken. .. W. C. Y. 

85 



HOW ABOUT BABY CHICKS? 



You probably noticed my Baby Chick Guarantee on Page 47, 
in which I stated that I shipped nothing but strong, vigorous chicks, 
and that I guaranteed that at least 95% would reach you alive. So 
you can see that I believe in the hardiness and vitality of "Famous" 
Baby Chicks. I have hundreds of "good reasons" for believing in 
them — and I am here reproducing a few of them. H. C. S. 

Ready for a Good Drink 

Illinois — After four days on the road the chicks you sent me 
came in first class condition, every one alive and ready for a good 
drink and meal. Thank you. H. L. 

A Lively Bunch 

Ohio — We received the 50 chicks last week. All were in fine 
shape and are doing fine. We are very proud of them. They are 
surely a lively bunch. Many thanks to you. J. J. J. 

Nice Layers and Lookers 

Kansas — Last year I bought some little chicks from you and 
they have sure proven some nice layers and nice lookers. C. H. A. 

Beat Anvil Chorus to a Whisper 

Pennsylvania — Chicks arrived 0. K. Are all you claim for them. 
They have the Anvil Chorus beat to a whisper. Anconas had no 
friends here, but are making them every day. C. S. 

Nothing Snappier or Prettier 

Virginia — The little Ancona beauty baby chicks arrived 0. K. 
As a pit game fancier and breeder for several years, I do not hes- 
itate to say that I have hatched nothing snappier or prettier than 
your Anconas. In other words, I am greatly pleased. A. P. H. 

Hopped Out of the Box 

Texas — Baby chicks received yesterday. All were in good con- 
dition and as usual hopped out of the box when opened and began 
to hustle. H. H. 

Prettiest Little Chicks 

Wisconsin — The *'babies" came in fine shape. Every one is in 
splendid condition. They began hopping out of the box as soon as 
we opened it. We think they are the prettiest little chicks w^e ever 
saw. J. w. V. 

Well Pleased 

North Carolina — The baby chicks you sent me arrived today 
all in good condition. Are all fine and strong and I am well pleased 
with them. W. A. C. 

86 



t 



Ready for Breakfast 

New Jersey — The baby chicks arrived yesterday, as Hvely a 
bunch as one would want to see. They took to the brooder just like 
old hands, and on going to them early today, found them ready for 
breakfast and ready to kick around. A. C. H. 



«i 



More Than My Money's Worth 

Iowa — The chicks arrived 0. K. Our neighbors think they are 
the prettiest chickens they ever saw. I certainly think I got more 
than my money's worth. H. W. 

Made Themselves at Home 
Kentucky — Chicks arrived safe and sound. They jumped out 
of the box and made themselves at home. I never handled such 
good chicks before. They are strong little fellows, and can take 
care of themselves from the start. A. 0. T. 

"As Chipper as You Please" 
Virginia — All my chicks are as chipper as you please. Among 
the many admirable traits of your "Famous" birds, their early 
strength and vigor is remarkable to me. I am certainly proud of 
my Anconas. A. P. H. 

"All in Fine Shape" 

Illinois — I received the 200 baby chicks all in fine shape. They 
are the most beautiful and liveliest chicks I ever saw. W. R. 

"Like a Bunch of Pansies" 

Ohio — ''Famous" chicks arrived yesterday — the loveliest bunch 
1 ever saw. When I took the lid off the box my wdfe remarked 
that they looked like a bunch of pansies. R. S. B. 

Ancona Chicks Appeal to Artist 

Alabama — My chicks arrived last night. I presume that they laid 
over in Mobile all day Monday as there was no mail boat over here 
that day, not until Tuesday evening. Now you can imagine that I ex- 
pected to find several dead chicks but what was my delight on opening 
the box to see a boxful of beautiful, lively baby Anconas. Not one dead. 
They are beauties ; in fact I think your Anconas are most attractive. 

Every One a Live Wire 

Pennsylvania — Received the chicks and to say that I am well 
pleased with them would be putting it mildly. Every one of them 
was a live wire, when they arrived. Thanking you for your courteous 
treatment and wishing you success. S. A. 

Counting the Dead Ones 

Wisconsin — The chicks arrived and each morning since the neigh- 
bors come over to count the dead ones, saying it is impossible that 
chicks can travel that distance and not some of them die, but at this 
time they are too busy to die. H. W. M. 

87 




WHAT ABOUT SHEPPARD SERVICE 



People seem to like the idea of my giving them personal service — 
both in the way of correspondence and selection. So I always manage 
to keep pretty close to things — in the office as well as out on the 
firing line. I have expert assistance in both places. The gentleman 
on my right is Mr. Frank A. Wangler, who assists me with my 
enormous mail. Whenever anything comes up that looks important, 
my Farm Superintendent confers with me. We get our heads to- 
gether — for two heads are usually better than one — and decide upon 
the matter in hand. I always try, in all my dealings with customers, 
to be fair, square, and to go the limit in satisfying them. 

H. C. S. 

"Squarest Deal Ever Received" 

Idaho — I want to say for the benefit of everyone interested in 
poultry, that in all our transactions you gave me the squarest deal I 
ever received from anyone. I take pleasure in recommending you to 
anyone wanting good, strong, healthy stock. Am highly pleased 
with the stock hatched from your eggs. F. T. R. 

More Than the Bird Is Appreciated 

Tennessee — ^The cockerel came in yesterday by express in good 
shape. He looks good and I desire to express my thanks to you for 
the bird and to assure you that I highly appreciate not only the bird 
but the fact that there is one poultryman that believes in doing the 
square thing by his patrons. 



"Thank You for Your Excellent Treatment" 

Indiana — My "Famous" flock is just fine, and I wish to thank 
you for your excellent treatment. I do not hesitate to recommend 
you to anyone, for I know that they will get what they order and will 
not be disappointed. J. E. D. 

Promptness and Selection 

Michigan — Received the cockerels in fine shape, and like them 
very much. Thanks for sending them so promptly and also for the 
good selection. W. H. L. 



a 



Thanks for Such Good Treatment" 

Arkansas — Received the pullets, you sent me 0. K. They are all 
doing fine, and I wish to thank you for your good treatment. J. E. S. 

"I Appreciate the Way You Have Treated Me" 

Kansas — Received the baby chicks. All were alive and in good 
condition and are doing fine. I appreciate the way you have treated 

me in this matter, and am highly pleased with these 'Tamous"" 
chicks. H. T. H. 

Couldn't Have Done Better Himself 

South Carolina — I was well pleased with the selection you sent 
me. I do not think that I could have made as good a selection as you 
gave me if I had been there and picked the stock myself. Everyone 
that sees them say they are beauties. F. P. R. 

"Many Thanks for the Selection'' 

Canada — Chicks arrived all 0. K. All living and in fine shape. 
Expect to raise all of them. A bunch of live wires. Many thanks for 
the selection. Hope to work into your "Classy Goods'' some day. 

R. M. 

Treated Squarely 

West Virginia — I want to thank you for your kindness. I have 
never dealt with anyone who treated me so squarely. The birds ar~ 
rived January 19th in good shape and are certainly fine birds. — A. S. 



"The Considerate and Friendly Way 



99 



Connecticut — I am very pleased with the considerate and friendly 
way you have of doing business. Really, I didn't expect anything as^ 
liberal. My heartfelt thanks for your generosity. R. C. P. 

"Best Service of All the Men I Have Dealt With" 

Illinois — The pen of Anconas arrived all right. They look good 
to me, but are the first that I have ever seen, so am not fully able to 
judge of their qualities. But I will say that you have given me the 
best service of all the men I have dealt with and I thank you for it. 
There is real pleasure in dealing with men that keep their word. — 

J. W. R. 

89 




^'Hard to get 
pictures — but a 
cinch to get eggs!" 
said one of the 
Contest entrants. 

Which just about 
hits the nail on 
the head! 





90 



THINGS YOU OUGHT TO KNOW BEFORE YOU ORDER 

Our Prices are Reduced 

I have never ''harped" on price as a reason for buying ''Famous" 
Anconas. They have a value in themselves — and so, Hke a diamond 
merchant, I have not relied on price. I allow the inherent quality of 
the stock to speak for itself. 

I feel it is only fair, however, to let you know that our prices 
have been reduced. It has been our custom, year after year, to in- 
crease the prices in proportion to the improvement in the quality of 
the Strain. For a chicken is a peculiar sort of product. If it is 
worth $10.00, it ought to sell for $10.00. If it is worth $100.00, it 
ought to sell for that — not a nickel less! 

This year I am going to depart from our ordinary custom. The 
Strain, as usual, has made a marked improvement, but the prices 
have been lowered. I do this because it is in keeping with new con- 
ditions. Some of the prices have been reduced as much as 20%. 

Satisfaction is Guaranteed 

It is my iron-clad policy to give all my customers the squarest 
kind of a square deal. All "Famous" Stock is guaranteed as repre- 
sented. All eggs, chicks, nd stock are shipped in the very best way 
we know how. 

Be sure that you examine shipment very carefully before you sign 
the Express receipt. If there is anything wrong with the shipment be 
sure to have notation made on the Express receipt before signing it. If 
you sign for a shipment "received in good order" there is no chance 
for you to file claim against the Express company excepting for broken 
eggs and then the claim may be filed against the Express company for 
concealed damages, but, should be reported to express agent promptly. 

Terms are Very Fair 

My terms are invariably cash with order. No orders booked unless 
accompanied by cash or a deposit of 25 per cent as an evidence of 
good faith. I will book orders for eggs for future shipment. Will ship 
at two or three different dates, if desired. Please remit by draft, reg- 
istered letter, or money order. No goods sent C. 0. D. Please write 
your name and address plainly. It is a good plan to give the name 
of your county. The order blank is on the first page of the pink 
insert. 

Our Facilities are Complete 

Many of my customers — located at considerable distances from 
my Home Plant — Inquire if they cannot secure Sheppard's Famous 
Anconas closer by, to save express charges and to assure a little 
earlier arrival. To accommadate these customers and to put myself 
in a position to render all a better service, I have established two 
branch farms. Both of these branches are under the supervision of 
Ancona Experts, and my personal attention is given to mating. The 
stock is identical with that shipped from Berea. From these two 
branch farms, we can now ship chicks and eggs at short notice and 
at a distinct saving in express charges. 

91 



Different Strains 

If you have purchased eggs or chicks from me and wish a 
cockerel of another strain to mate with your pullets, please state 
this fact when you order. And let me advise you at this point, to 
build up your flock occasionally with new, fresh blood. And don't 
build down, with lesser strains — build up, with "Famous'' Stock. 

I might as well say here that I reserve the right to replace a 
male bird in a breeding pen with another bird of superior quality. 
Occasionally one of my best specimens is not placed on exhibition 
because of some slight accident. Or a bird may not be quite "ripe" 
for the Show Room, and may later develop into a better bird than 
is listed. In cases like this, you get the advantage of the better bird. 

Canadian Shipments 

While there is an import duty on common fowls going into Can- 
ada from the United States, it will interest my Canadian friends to 
learn that Sheppard's Pure Bred "Famous" Anconas are passed into 
Canada free of duty, when accompanied by proper invoices and cer- 
tificates. We are very glad to furnish proper invoices and certificates 
of pure breed with every shipment of Sheppard's Famous Ancona 
hatching eggs^ baby chicks or stock going to Canada, so that there 
will be no duty on the shipment. This should be an inducement to 
import Ancona stock direct, as many people have had the idea that 
the duty on high grade Anconas amounted to nearly as much as the 
birds themselves. Our Export Department gives special attention 
to shipments going to another country. 



$25.00 in Gold Free 

I hereby offer $25.00 in gold for the best record of six or 
more hens or pullets bought of me or hatched from eggs bought 
from me in any twelve consecutive months. It will not be neces- 
sary to trap-nest them, only keep a record and state average. 
Send a sworn statement to me at the end of the twelve months. 

Prize will be paid September 1st, 1923. 



Visitors Always Welcome 

Visitors are welcome at the Sheppard farm. Please make ar- 
rangements by letter or phone a few days ahead, if possible, so that 
Ave can arrange to give you attention when you arrive. 

Prices on Baby Chicks will be found on Page 47. 
Prices on Hatching Eggs and Stock now follow. 

92 



PRICES ON "FAMOUS" HATCHING EGGS 
SINGLE COMB MATINGS 

Single Comb — Pen One 

Headed by the handsome invincible male, Champion of all 
Anconas, Richard III, King of America. He won first as cockerel in 
the greatest of all shows, Madison Square Garden, where he again 
showed his quality, and easily won as cock, following year. Have 
mated him to a few of my best females. Will sell a very limited 
number of eggs from this remarkable pen at $30.00 per 15. 

Single Comb — Pen Two 

Headed by General, pride of America. First cockerel at Madison 
Square Garden. Females are all high scoring birds, including first, 
second and third Madison Square hens. 

Single Comb — ^Pen Three 

Headed by Prince Renown, first cock, Madison Square Garden. 
Females are all choice high scoring birds, including all the females in 
first Madison Square pen and Madison Square pullets. Pens two and 
three are beyond a doubt the grandest pens of Anconas in America 
excepting pen number one. Will sell a limited number of eggs from 
these pens at $15.00 per 15, $28.50 per 30, $47.00 per 50, $90.00 per 
100. 

Single Comb — Pen Four 

Headed by King George, first pen cock, Madison Square Garden. 
Females descendants of World's Champion Laying strain. $15.00 
per 15, $28.50 per 30, $47.00 per 50, $90.00 per 100. 

Single Comb — Pen Five 

Headed by Major, second cock, Madison Square Garden. Females 
descendants of World's Champion Laying strain. $15.00 per 15, 
$28.50 per 30, $47.00 per 50, $90.00 per 100. 

Pens Four and Five are mated especially for eggs and exhibition 
specimens combined. 

Single Comb — Pen Eight 

Headed by Billy, second cockerel, Madison Square Garden. 
Females are all choice high scoring birds. Eggs, $10.00 per 15; 
$30.00 per 50 ; $55.00 per 100. 

Single Comb — Pen Nine 

Headed by Joseph, second pen cockerel, Madison Square Garden. 
Females are choice birds, including some of my Madison Square win- 
ners. Prices of eggs same as pen Eight. 

93 



WORLD'S CHAMPION LAYING STRAIN 

IN SINGLE COMB PENS, Nos. 40 TO 80 

As we have stated elsewhere, you are practically sure to 
have excellent results with any Sheppard's "Famous" Anconas. 
The name ''Sheppard" assures that. I have other pens that 
might produce more big layers than would a setting from these 
pens. Incorporated in it are males and females that are good 
layers. These pens have been selected especially for those who 
concentrate on the commercial end and wish EGG PRODUCING 
STOCK that is without an equal in America. Some of the 
world's greatest layers came from these pens. 



Single Comb— Pens 40 to 80 

Headed by large magnificent birds. Females are good, standard 
bred stock. Selected for egg production. Eggs, ?5.65 per 15; $11.10 
per 30; $16.20 per 45; $18.00 per 50; $33.75 per 100. Prices on lots 
of 500 or more will be furnished on application. 

ROSE COMB MATINGS 
Rose Comb — Pen A 

Headed by the King of Rose Comb males, Victor. First cockerel, 
Madison Square Garden. Returned the following year and won first 
as cock at Madison Square Garden, Mated with a few of my best 
females. Will sell a few settings from this wonderful pen at $30.00 
per 15. 

Rose Comb — Pen B 

Headed by a grand male, Lone Star. First cock, Madison Square 
Garden. Females are choice birds, including first pullet and females 
in first pen, Madison Square Garden. Eggs $16.50 per 15. 

Rose Comb — Pen C 

Headed by Champion, first cockerel, Madison Square Garden, 
Females are high grade birds, including first and second hens, 
Madison Square Garden. Eggs, $16.50 per 15. 

Rose Comb — Pens H to L 

Headed by splendid cockerels, including third and fourth cock- 
erels, Madison Square Garden. Females are all good stock, and good 
layers. Eggs, $8.75 per 15; $16.80 per 30; $24.75 per 45; $27.00 

per 50; $52.00 per 100. 

94 



GENERAL PRICES FOR BREEDING STOCK 

Selected Breeders — Single Comb 

Cocks $20, $25, $35, $50, $75 

Hens $12, $15, $20, $25 

Cockerels.... $15, $20, $25, $35, $50, $75 

Pullets $12, $15. $20, $25 

Carefully Mated Trio.... $35, $50, $75, $100 

Carefully Mated Breeding Pens — 4 females 

and one male $60, $75, $100, $150 

Selected Breeders — Rose Comb 

Cocks $20, $25, $35, $50, $75 

Hens..-. $12, $15, $20, $25 

Cockerels $15, $20, $25, $35, $50, $75 

Pullets $12, $15, $20, $25 

Carefully Mated Trio.. $35, $50, $75, $100 

Carefully Mated Breeding Pens — 4 females 

and one male $60, $75, $100, $150 

Utility Breeders — Single Comb 

Cocks $ 12.00 

Cockerels ..-$ 9.00 

Hens and Pullets $ 8.50 

Trio — 2 females and male . ...$ 24.00 

Pens — 4 females and male..... $ 40.00 

Pens — 6 females and male $ 56.00 

Ten females and male..... $ 87.00 

Twelve females and male. $102.00 

Twenty-four females and two males $204.00 

One hundred and five females and eight males $850.00 

Utility Breeders — Rose Comb 

Cocks $15.00 

Cockerels $11.00 

Hens and Pullets ......$10.00 

Trio — 2 females and one male ..... $29.25 

Pens — 4 females and one male ...$48.75 

Utility birds are bred from my best laying strain. If the bird 
does not qualify for a select breeder it is sold for utility bird. If it is 
eggs you want, the utility birds will not disappoint you. Many high 
grade birds are bred from my utility stock. 

95 



Trios — Single or Rose Comb 

A $24.00 Trio consists of one $9.00 Single Comb male bird and 
two good Single Comb females. 

A $29.25 Trio is made up of one good Rose Comb male bird and 
two good Rose Comb females. 

A $35.00 Trio is made up of one $15.00 male bird and two 
females of near the $12.00 type. Splendid mating. 

A $50.00 Trio is made up of a $25.00 male and two very choice 
females of the $15.00 quality. This mating is intended to produce ex- 
cellent stock. 

A $75.00 Trio is, made up of a $40.00 male and two $20.00 
females. This is a choice mating and mated to produce classy stock. 

A $100.00 Trio is made up of a $50.00 male and two extra choice 
females. An unusually good mating. 

Breeding Pens — Single or Rose Comb 

A $40.00 Breeding Pen is made up of four Single Comb females 
of good quality and selected with care, and are mated to a choice 
Single Comb male bird. 

A $48.75 Breeding Pen is made up of four Rose Comb females of 
good quality and selected with care, and are mated to a choice male 
Rose Comb bird. 

A $60.00 Breeding Pen is a mating that one can be proud of. A 
$20.00 male bird is at the head of this pen, and I have mated to him 
four very choice females. This is one of the best values offered in 
pen matings. 

A $75.00 Breeding Pen consists of a choice $25.00 male bird and 
four elegant $15.00 quality females. You get quality in this mating. 
You can bank on getting a large percentage of very high class birds 
from this pen. 

A $100.00 Breeding Pen is made up of a male of the $40.00 qual- 
ity. Mated with him are four select females of the $20.00 quality, 
and they are selected with care and for the purpose of producing high 
class birds. 

A $150.00 Breeding Pen is made up of a male bird of the $50.00 
quality, a bird that will make a good showing, and one that I know 
will more than please you. To him are mated four very high class 
females of quality, thus giving you a pen good enough to start a flock 
of birds as good as the best. 

NOTE : — We do not crowd our breeders for heavy egg production 
at any time, as we prefer to keep the "Famous" vitality and to pass 
up the few additional Hatching Eggs or Baby Chicks that we could 
get by forcing. Which is an advantage for you — no matter what 
you buy, Eggs, Chicks, or Stock. 

96 



Index to the ^Tamous'^ Catalog 

A Anconas as Egg Layers 

Heavy 64-66 

Winter - 34, 67, 68 

Early ^... 70, 71 

Anconas as Money-makers 80-83 

g Baby Chicks 42-47, 86, 87 

Back-yards, Anconas in 23 

r* Comparison with other Breeds 32, 78, 79 

Canadian Shipments 92 

P Foreign Shipments „ 30, 31 

"Factory," The Sheppard ..-.. ..-. 38, 39 

Q Guarantees 47, 84, 91 

XT Hardiness, Ancona 36, 37, 74, 75 

Hatching Eggs 84, 85 

Headquarters, Ancona 48, 49 

History, Ancona 10, 12 

Q Office, The Sheppard 13 

p Prices, on Baby Chicks..... ....7. 47 

Hatching Eggs 93, 94 

Stock 95, 96 

Prize-winners, Anconas as. 50, 62, 75, 76 

"D Reference 9 

g Service, Sheppard 88, 89 

Snap-shot Contest „ 2-5, 69, 77, 90 

"Y Terms 91 

U "Upkeep" Ancona 73 

W "Wildness" Ancona 26-29, 71, 72 




ham. 



4th EDITION OF 
*^,223 PROFIT FROM A TOWN LOT IN ONE YEAR^ 

by H. Cecil Sheppard 



This book— -"$4,223 Profit from a Town 
Lot in One Year" — fully discusses the experi- 
mental days of my business. It tells how to 
make a success of poultry — and how not to! 
In this book I adivse how to make the most 
money from your chickens, whether they are 
Anconas or some other breed. A beginner 
could not make a better investment. Send a 
dollar bill or stamps at my risk. 



One Chapter Worth Three Times the Money 

Michigan — Think your Town Lot book is fine. Any one chapter 
is worth more than three times the price of the book. — L. B. S. 

Instructive to the Beginner 

Ohio— Your book is great! It is very instructive to the beginner 

especially. — C. H. 

Book Worth 10 Years' Experience 

Ohio— I will say this — ^I learned more from your Town Lot Book 
than I learned in ten years* experience. — ^W. H. C. 




2nd EDITION OF 
"A LITTLE JOURNEY AMONG ANCONAS'' 

by H. Cecil Sheppard 

This book devotes itself to an interesting historical and develop- 
ment sketch of Anconas. It touches upon Ancona Achievements both 
here at home and abroad. And though it is a comprehensive text 
book, it is written in a chatty style. A single copy is a dollar; 
three copies for two dollars. (And I will sell both books to you for 
$L65). 

For Students of Poultry 

New Hampshire — I thought I knew An- 
conas, but the facts you put in your "Little 
Journey Among Anconas," proved a distinct 
supplement to my knowledge of the subject. 
I heartily recommend this to students of 
poultry husbandry. — M. A. C. 

Couldn't Stop Reading It 

Idaho — Received the "Little Journey" 
and found it very interesting. I never stopped 
reading it until I had read every word. 

— H. J. T, 






TEAR OFF THE BLANK ATTACHED TO THIS 

Guarantee of Satisfaction 

Send your order sufficiently early to be sure of best 
selection. All "Famous" stock is guaranteed to be 
exactly as represented. 
Satisfied customers being among our greatest assets, it has been for many 

years, and is a definite policy of this organization to see that every purchaser 

is satisfied with his transaction. 

Use This Blank Soon for Best Selection 

STOCK EGGS FOR HATCHING BABY CHICKS 

Date. p. O „__ _ _ state 

R. F. D. or Street „ 



H. CECIL SHEPPARD 

Berea, Ohio 

Dear Mr. Sheppard: 

Enclosed find (draft) (money order) (registered letter) (express 

order) for $ 

Enter my order for shipment on or about „ . . ... 

the following: 



Name 

Ship to — Express Office „ 

Street or R. F. D. No 

County ^ State 



(Please write name clearly and give your address in full. If post office anid 
express station are different, include both. 

State name of Journal in which you saw my Ad ? 



MAKING MONEY 
FROM POULTRY 



Making money 4n-the peultry bu&ine&s (and extracting pleasure 
from it too) is largely a matter of getting eggs — and getting them 
consistently in the dead of winter, and early in the bird's life. 

Consistent Laying 

"Famous" Anconas have the egg-laying habit. Day after day 
they seek the nest. And it is this steady, every-day hammering away 
that rolls up the big records — records put up for other breeds to 
shoot at. 

Winter Laying 

In a way, this matter of laying consistently "takes in" Winter 
Laying. For cold weather ought to make no particular difference to 
a consistent layer — and it doesn't seem to with "Famous" Anconas! 
Regardless of the thermometer, they stick to the job. And it is 
in the Winter, remember, that eggs bring the best prices. Some of 
my customers have even told me that Anconas seemed to shell out 
the eggs faster in the winter than at other times of the year! 

Early Laying 

Early egg production also seems to be a pronounced Ancona 
characteristic. They soon begin to pay for their board and room — 
with fine, large eggs. Laying at a little over 3 months is, of course, 
rather unusual; 4 months is quite common; and 5 months is very 
ordinary. 

I know of no breed that lays so heavily, that lays so many eggs 

in the winter time, and that lays so early in life! If you have found 

a breed that combines these three good laying habits, you've found a 

breed that will make you money! 

H. C. S. 




Just 
One 
More 
Word! 



If you have enjoyed reading this. Book 
of mine, (and I sincerely hope you have) 
I wonder if you will be good enough to 
pass it on to some friend of yours who 
is interested in poultry. Til be glad to 
send you a brand-new copy to replace 
this one. Or, if you prefer, just let me 
know the name — and I'll send one direct. 

For I am anxious to spread the Gospel 
of these splendid Winter Layers. I am 
anxious to have more people know about 
these remarkable producers of More 
Eggs at a Lower Cost. I am anxious 
to "tell the world" about these Beautiful 
Prize Winners. I am anxious to have 
everyone make More Money from Poul- 
try. 

You can help — by passing the "good 
word" down the line! 

Cordially yours. 




LIBRARY OF CONGRESS 



002 841 009 8^ 




iM 



LIBRARY OF CONGRESS 



III I III! nil I 



002 841 009 8 ^ 



Hollinger Corp. 



\ 



LIBRARY OF CONGRESS 



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002 841 009 8 ^ 



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